Jim and Kris’s Story

Site created on November 29, 2023

Dear Friends and Family,

On Saturday November 25, Jim and Kris were in a car accident on their way home to Grand Rapids after spending Thanksgiving with friends in St. Paul. A pick up truck going the opposite direction spun out on black ice in front of them and they collided head-on. They were airlifted to CentraCare in St. Cloud where they were immediately admitted to the trauma unit. They have suffered many serious but non-life threatening injuries. Most of their injuries are bone fractures, though Kris does have a concussion as well. Jim fractured his left hip, ankle, ribs, hand, both tib/fibs, lumbar vertebrae. Kris fractured both her wrists, ribs, and sternum. Both are maintaining hope and high spirits.

Both Jim and Kris are in need of immediate surgeries due to the severity of certain breaks. Jim had his first surgery of three on Wednesday Nov. 29. This surgery was to reconstruct his hip which was severely fractured. The surgery has been successful, which is great relief. Next week he will have ankle surgery, followed by hand reconstructive surgery. Thursday November 30 Kris will have wrist surgery. Following her wrist surgery she will be at the hospital for a few days and then transferred to an intensive rehabilitation center.

Jon and Nick flew from Seattle to MSP and arrived in St. Cloud on Nov. 26. They are busy putting together all the necessary pieces while also being available to Jim and Kris as emotional support and care. At this time it is challenging for them to keep everyone updated and in the loop, which is why we've created this page that you may share with any loved ones to stay up-to-date. Many of you have expressed interest in being of support - we will post on this website updates about what is going on and any requests we have. Thank you all for your care and love - it means everything to Jim, Kris, Jon, Nick and all of us. We love you.

Newest Update

March 24, 2024

Journal entry by Elizabeth Thomson —

Hi Friends and Fam!

Want to give you all an update - first, it's Jim's Birthday today!!! There's a big snow storm in MN as many of you know and some celebration plans Jim and Kris had have been thwarted - feel free to give him a call or text to wish him a happy birthday if you are able! 

Jim and Kris are living in St. Cloud still receiving PT and OT. We had planned for Jim and Kris to fly to Seattle this weekend where they would be able to live with Nick and Hannah as they continue at-home recovery. One of the hardest parts of this situation has been the far distance between us! HOWEVER with the big snow storm and some recent updates to care, we decided to postpone their move. 


Thanks for all your love, we couldn't have made it through the toughest parts of this situation without you!

Love,
Elizabeth
Read More of the journal titled "March 24, 2024"
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