Jenn and Adam James on a ski trip. Photo submitted
Friends of a woman badly injured in an accident have set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for medical expenses.
On August 26 Jenn James’s life took a heartbreaking turn during a camping trip in Bend, Oregon. A devastating fall resulted in burst fractures in her T11 and L1 vertebrae, causing internal bleeding and excruciating pain. Jenn, a Los Osos resident for the past two decades, now faces an uncertain path to recovery.
After her injury, Jenn was airlifted to a Level 2 Trauma Center in Bend where she underwent a grueling 5-hour emergency surgery to remove bone fragments that had lodged into her spinal canal. Her medical team has conveyed the uncertainty of whether she will regain her ability to walk.
“Jenn is not just a name on a medical chart,” says long-time friend Taylor Wathen. “She is an amazing wife and mother to two sons, as well as a ‘ride or die’ friend to many. If you ever find yourself needing help, Jenn and her family are always the first ones to show up. Now, we’re hoping her community will show up for her.”
“Jenn and her family are confronted with mounting medical bills, air transportation costs, and essential rehabilitation expenses,” said Wathen. “The uncertainty surrounding insurance coverage only deepens the financial burden. Moreover, Jenn’s home will likely require renovations, and there is the possibility she may need assistive devices if she is unable to regain mobility.”
As of September 15, Jenn’s GoFundMe campaign had seen an outpouring of support from the community, raising an impressive $27,451— the goal is $115,678.
“However, Jenn’s journey to recovery is an ongoing battle, and the financial challenges ahead are substantial,” said Wathen. “More support is needed to ensure that she receives the comprehensive care required to rebuild her life. Every contribution, big or small, brings us one step closer to helping Jenn overcome these challenges, pursue healing, and reclaim the life she deserves.”
Readers who want to donate, should go to Jenn’s GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/8e7a9b21. For more information, contact Taylor Wathen at (805) 748-9504 or taylorwathen@gmail.com.
