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John’s Story

Site created on March 15, 2020

Welcome to John Runkles' CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. On March 11, 2020 John suffered a severe stroke, in the form of a large blood clot on the left side of his brain. It was completely unexpected, as John is only 38 years old, healthy, active, and has no major health issues. His brother David and sister-in-law Tricia were with him when it happened, and were able to have an ambulance there within minutes. John was quickly air-lifted to a hospital in Denver where they performed an emergency operation to remove the blood clot from his brain. The surgery was successful, John's life was miraculously spared, and he has embarked upon the road to recovery. On March 19, John was transferred to Craig hospital in Denver for their acute rehab program. Craig has one of the best brain injury rehab programs in the country that specializes in younger patients who are good candidates for full recovery. John is doing very well with processing, memory, etc, but there are many speech and motor skills that need to be "re-learned" through intensive therapy. Though there are challenges to overcome, John is making progress everyday. For those who don't know the family well, John and his wife Tasha have three small children including a newborn, which has made this an extra difficult time. Please visit the "Gallery" link above to see photos of their sweet family. We so appreciate your prayers, support and words of hope and encouragement! If you would like to help with practical needs, please click the "Ways to Help" link above, or to share a message with John or his family, click on "Well Wishes" above to make a post. We all love hearing from you. Thank you so much for standing with us in this journey!

Newest Update

Journal entry by Leslie Ludy — Dec 23, 2020

Hi everyone, John is doing great. He received stem cell treatment and more hyperbaric chamber treatments as well. That seemed to make a big difference, and he has even returned to working full time as a realtor during the last two months. He has continued running because that seems to make him feel good also. We can't thank you enough for your support, it has made all the difference. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas season!

Read More of the journal titled "December 23, 2020 An Update on John + Merry Christmas!"

A recent family photo!

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