Help Kevin Get Moving Again
On September 21st of 2017 Kevin was involved in an accident swimming off the Delaware shore. As a result of this accident he suffered significant damage to his C3/C4 vertebrae. While his spinal cord is only bruised—not severed—the accident left Kevin paralyzed below the shoulders and dependent upon a ventilator to breathe.
After three months of intensive treatment in Philadelphia, he was cleared to fly back to Portland. At home, he continued his recovery work at a series of rehabilitation facilities. In March of this year, Kevin and Sue relocated to a wheelchair-accessible apartment in North Portland. Kevin has continued to dedicate himself to the rehabilitation work that will one day let him breathe on his own, use his arms, and—by the grace of God—move his legs again.
Anyone who knows Kevin knows the delight he took in the outdoors; the pleasure he took in cycling and hiking across Oregon, and his evening strolls with Sue. He brought this kinetic joy to his work as head of the Portland Workforce Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to connecting young Portlandians with local businesses—providing them training, mentorship, and the ability to plan a brighter future for themselves. Now, after a lifetime of helping others, Kevin needs our help.
The cost of rehabilitation and around-the-clock nursing has been expensive. Kevin and Sue were planners, but their insurance and savings will not cover all their costs. Our family needs help meeting some key needs:
A smart rehabilitation-cycle that will use electrodes to help stimulate and strengthen Kevin’s muscles, helping prevent atrophy and improving his chance of recovery.
A wheelchair-accessible van that will allow Kevin and Sue to move beyond the boundaries of their neighborhood. This will help them access medical facilities, go to church, visit friends and family, and get Kevin back into Oregon’s great outdoors.
Finally, given Kevin’s current dependence on a ventilator, it is vital that he has in-home nursing. While we hope that his rehabilitation will help us move beyond this requirement, at the moment it is both essential and costly.
Kevin has led a full life and gathered a dear group of friends and colleagues in his travels. Many of you have asked: “what can I do to support Kevin?” This is an important way you can help. Donations to Help Hope Live will directly benefit Kevin’s rehabilitation effort, allowing him the opportunity to live a fuller life.
We are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Injury. We chose Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses.
To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the GIVE button. And please consider sharing this link with others so they may donate as well.
Thank you for your prayers, support, and generosity.
The family of Kevin Jeans-Gail
To send donations by credit card please press the GIVE button and fill out the requested information.
For Checks:
Make checks payable to: Help Hope Live
Note in memo section: In honor of Kevin Jeans-Gail
Please send to: Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
100 Matsonford Road
Suite 100, Radnor, PA 19087
For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.
Updates (5)
March 31, 2020
Exciting News for Kevin. Thanks again to your generosity and the Functional Electrical Stimulation bike. The video shows Kevin's arms moving using the electric stimulus pads that he uses when riding the bike with his arms, but instead of cycling with his arms, he is working on thrusting his arms forward. Kevin has had good movement of his shoulders and scapula since about two months after the accident. Capitalizing on the movement, his outpatient occupational therapist has added this simple exercise to try to redevelop the neuro-muscular connection from his brain to his arms. The goal is to move from a chin drive for his power wheelchair to a hand drive. There are new drive devices that move a chair with very little hand or finger movement. Fingers crossed.
Additionally, since November 1, we have had a crew renovating a house that Kevin owned in to an accessible home that should be completed so we can move in around the middle of May. While much of the current funds that have been raised since July continue to pay for our caregivers, a portion of these funds will fund a vertical patient lift that will allow Kevin access to tour new home. If you follow me on Facebook, you've seen some of the photos I've posted. I will post more here once the lift is installed in a few weeks.
Gratitude for all your help.
Sue and Kevin
December 29, 2018
Friday, December 21st, as fall turned to winter, Kevin received his new (slightly used) 2014 Toyota Sienna van. Since that time, he has used it to attend church twice, stop to pick up dinner to go, visited his old neighborhood, and gone to a movie with his son, Conor and wife, Sue.
To say this was the best Christmas present ever, may seem extreme, but it really is an amazing gift. Kevin and Sue are totally overwhelmed with the generosity of folks, some of whom they don't even know. They are grateful to all who contributed to make this gift possible.
November 19, 2018
On Tuesday, November 13th, Kevin was honored with a Spirit of Portland award for his years of service to the city of Portland. Prior to the founding of the Portland Workforce Alliance, Kevin worked for eight year as Chief of Staff to Commissioner Jim Francisconi, and then for Commissioner Dan Saltzman. From both the work with the City and with the schools in Portland, the young people and their families, Kevin was there to serve those in need.
November 14, 2018
Through our first months of fundraising, the goal of a functional electrical stimulation (FES) bike has been met. This bike has now arrived and is set up in our (tiny) apartment. Current use is for days when there are no Physical or Occupational therapy appointments scheduled. Our next goal is the purchase of a van (see photo in album below) to make accessing these appointments, as well as doctor visits and friends who live outside of the neighborhood more time efficient. A typical appointment with public transportation takes about four hours for a one hour appointment. November 13th Kevin received the Spirit of Portland award (see previous post) so we hired a medical transportation van service to take us and return us home. Cost for the trip: $90.00 Needless to say, we don't take many of those.
Thank you to all who have donated so far. We are beyond grateful for your help.
Photo Galleries (4)
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Guestbook
August 27, 2019
Kevin's brother, Brian, was my boss/employer for many, many years. He was always generous to many including myself and my family. I will never forget his philanthropic way of living. He has instilled in me the desire to do the same. May God Bless the Gail family. Fran
Fran DeMarco-Apicella
August 21, 2019
You and the family remain in our prayers!
James Dwyer
August 19, 2019
This donation is being made "in honor of Kevin Jeans Gail"
Francis Deasey
August 19, 2019
Dear Kevin, our family will continue to pray for you and your family. God bless you!
Bobby Schindler
August 1, 2019
Warmest wishes, hopes and prayers are with you and yours. Annette, Patrick, Michael and Gabriel.
Annette Donnelly
July 18, 2019
Kevin, you are an inspiration! So is your sister Eileen who I have the pleasure of calling my friend. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless!
Marcia Berger
July 13, 2019
This story really hurts me. When I think of the thousand times that I have been tumbled in the ocean, I know that I am very lucky.
So glad to hear that you are able to keep your spirits up.
john murray
July 11, 2019
God bless you - you are truly an inspiration for everyone.
Peggy McCann
Marguerite McCann
July 11, 2019
We cheer for you everyday!
Gregg & Anne Marie Lodes
July 11, 2019
I am honored and blessed to give and continue to pray and be inspired by your faith and love of our God. May all who read this know Jesus Christ as their savior and be filled with His spirit. XOXO Sandy Clark
Sandy Clark
July 9, 2019
In honor of Kevin Jeans Gail
Deborah Giardini
July 8, 2019
Kevin, You are in our prayers and keeping you in our thoughts.
Anne and Dave Hicks
Anne Hicks
July 2, 2019
God Bless you. Stay strong, brother.
Stephen Kenny
July 1, 2019
Keep the faith, Kevin. You are an inspiration to many.
Dave Owsik
June 30, 2019
God bless you!
Thomas R Caffrey
June 30, 2019
A knight of the Immaculate..with prayer.
JOSEPH BRITT
June 30, 2019
Hopefully our prayers are worth more than our cash.
God bless you Kevin
James Longon James Longon
June 25, 2019
Kevin & Sue Jeans-Gail ~
We are in prayer to our great & awesome God for His incredible miracle of grace and His continuing strength for both Kevin and Sue as they walk together through the valley. May the presence of our Savior, the Lord Jesus, give you great courage and comfort in your daily battle! We send our love to you both!
Jim & Lou Devine
Jim & Lou Devine
June 24, 2019
Hey Kevin, great to see you last night at the viewing of Rocky. Keep up the fight! God bless ya.......Bob
Bob Lewicki
June 24, 2019
Best of luck with everything. Go the distance like Rocky!
Jon Nardini
June 23, 2019
We are happy to support such a Can Do Guy and his Can Do Family. So much important work yet to be done for our young people.
Thanks for continuing to lead that work.
Leslie Rennie-Hill
March 19, 2019
Kevin. I\'m thinking about you. As always, as I think about you, a huge smile comes to me. Thank you. Sue, I\'m not sure if we\'ve met, yet I , since my days when I first met Kevin playing bball at the NE YMCA, have always been grateful for our friendship. Sue, hopefully I can introduce myself in the near future. Kevin, Pura Vida mi amigo.
Clint Benson
February 11, 2019
The second Saturday of every month, I miss your presence anew. Please join us at MSG when you are able.
Gm.
January 30, 2019
Dear Kevin, we love you and pray for you everyday. You are so precious to us. Jim and Eileen
Eileen and Jim Donnelly/ Powers
January 14, 2019
Paula and I "met" you on the beach that day in September, and your strength and tenacity have inspired us every day since. We are still praying for you, Sue, and your whole family!
Lisa Wernsman
January 11, 2019
From the Carvelli Family
John Carvelli
January 6, 2019
Blessings in the New Year, Kevin.
Rich Rohde and Caren Caldwell
January 1, 2019
We love youKevin and Sue! Happy New Year!
Love from the Merydiths
Scott & Jenny Merydith
December 31, 2018
I wish you all the best in your recovery.
Kathleen Whitfield
December 21, 2018
Kevin,
On behalf of Cliff Jeans, Paul and Pat Jeans, Mark, Lisa, Ashley and Kari Trail, we want you to know you have our love and support.
Stay Strong. Take care.
Cliff Jeans
December 19, 2018
I haven't met Kevin myself, but he has touched the life of a dear friend of mine who served on the ACE board with him, and she admires him dearly. Sending prayers and good thoughts to Kevin and his family.
Adele Rygg
December 17, 2018
We love you Kevin. Thanks for all you do for our community, our young people and us.
jim francesconi
December 17, 2018
Kevin has given so much to so many! He deserves as much as we all can give. He is an inspiration to us all!!
Michelle Schulz
December 16, 2018
Hi there Kevin and the Gail family . I was thrilled to see the recent news of your accident and need for support publicized throughout the entire Prep community . I wanted to let you know that one of our classmates was pivotal in making that happen . I contacted Joe Ruggieri , whom I am sure you remember , and I recalled that he was a former Board member at The Prep I believe while one of his sons was attending the school . Joe reached out to the proper men he knew could make this happen , and by God it did .
I will continue to pray for your continued recovery and will also contribute to your fund going forward . I know you are taking it one day at a time and are on a daily walk with Our Lord . Best wishes for a blessed Christmas Season , most sincerely .
Tom Fitzgerald Class of \'69 !
December 13, 2018
May God continue to give you strength.
Prayers for you and your family.
christine ciarrocchi
December 13, 2018
One day at a time. From a Prep alumnus.
Owen King
December 5, 2018
With love and appreciation~
Susan
Susan Shugerman
December 5, 2018
Kevin,
Please know that you and your family have so many people that want to help and support you in your fight.
Barbara Farmer
December 5, 2018
Kevin - Dear fellow Irishman and Hooper, wishing and praying for the best possible outcome in your fight and rehabilitation. - Kevin & Judy Parsons
Kevin & Judy Parsons
December 3, 2018
Hi Kevin,
Hope to come see you soon. I am hoping to do a quick trip to Portland. Love you! Lee
LeeAnn Hall
December 3, 2018
Kevin,
We are confident your determination will see you through the journey to recovery. There are an army of supporters behind you every step of the way. Prayers for healing!
John and Valerie Harrington
November 30, 2018
Sending wishes for strength and healing. Dianna and Ron
Dianna and Ronald Hanlon
November 28, 2018
Kevin:
I hope this helps get that van. You were one of the last true point guards at NECC. And a tough defender. We all have a few bruises to attest to that. I know you're a fighter. You have a lot of family and friends in your corner.
John Fraser
November 28, 2018
Kevin, I recently learned about your accident through Jeff and Joan. Your courage and determination are inspiring. I am honored to help out. Go Team Oregon!
Rick Bombaci
November 28, 2018
Love to you Kevin, it was good to see you, even if only on Face Book.
Lynn Buechler
November 27, 2018
Sending love and hope for healing. John
John Fenner
November 27, 2018
I saw that a friend of mine posted on Facebook that he had donated and read your story. I broke my neck (c6/c7 now fused) a decade ago. I live with gratitude every day that I'm now able to walk around, and my heart goes out to you so much right now that I wish I could buy you a van myself. I can't, but I hope this little donation helps you towards a full recovery.
Graham Rich
November 27, 2018
Wishing only the best to you and family!
Jan Dineen
November 27, 2018
Dear Kevin and Sue,
Just found this site through Margaret\'s post.
Please know Jane and I are holding you both in our thoughts and sending all best wishes.
With love,
Terry
Terry Chadsey
November 26, 2018
We love you Kevin!
Susan Nielsen
November 26, 2018
Best of luck and our love to you during this challenge.
Bill & Liddy Curtin
William Curtin
November 26, 2018
Dear Sue & Kevin: Sharon and I are inspired by your commitment and your courage. We hold you in the Light with deepest gratitude for who you are. With many blessings, Parker
Parker Palmer
November 26, 2018
Kevin and Sue your perseverance, courage and love is inspirational love you both
Eve Stevenson
November 21, 2018
Blessings, prayers, and good wishes for the battles ahead and hopefully some rejuvenating drives in the new van.
Mark Holloway and David Kahl
(Friends of Stephen and Susan Ristau)
Mark Holloway
November 16, 2018
So impressed by all the progress Kevdog has made and can't wait to see him continue to heal, love to you all! C+C
Chelsea Clark
November 15, 2018
So grateful to the organizers of this event. It’s a wonderful way to help those of us who have held Kevin in our hearts and prayers...and now have a tangible way to offer our support to this man of courage and great faith! Gina Shuck, Dover, Delaware (Met you, Kevin, one evening at Debbie and John Kirkland‘s House. We got acquainted over a pizza dinner:) Hope your goal of getting that van is realized soon!
Gina Shuck
November 15, 2018
Thoughts and prayers towards a successful recovery.
Jon Nardini
November 14, 2018
Happy to helpin this small way. Love to Kevin and family.
The Letourneau family
Deborah Letourneau
September 21, 2018
Hi Kevin. I think of you often and I am glad to see that you are doing well. I am the nurse that helped on the beach the evening of your accident. I will pray that you continue your recovery and get stronger.
Brandi Gerig
September 11, 2018
Praying for your full and complete recovery Kevin! God bless you and heal you in every way!
Charles DeFeo
September 10, 2018
Our thoughts are with you.
The Haly Family
Mary Ann and Gregg Haly
September 7, 2018
Kevin,
Met you once with Barry and Sheri a few years back. We are pulling for you and that you will be blessed with progress in the coming days.
God Bless you and the family,
Emily Ziebell & Mark Alexander
Emily Ziebell
September 5, 2018
Kevin - you and your family are in my prayers. Peg Mitchell
Peggy Mitchell
August 31, 2018
Our prayers are with Kevin, his family and continued recovery.
Lyle Frederick
August 24, 2018
your are surrounded by support and love.
jeffrey morgan
August 22, 2018
Kevin....we have not met, but we will someday. Let you continue to inspire those kids you work with as you have all these years on your way to recovery.
All our very best,
Dave and Annette Helman
Dave Helman
August 22, 2018
Love you, Uncle Kev. You continue to be an inspiration to us. God Bless you!
Lindsay, Brian, and Lea
Brian Donnelly
August 20, 2018
Praying for a full recovery!
Mandi Remick
August 18, 2018
My sincere hope is that you WILL walk again!!!
Jeff Manley
August 18, 2018
To the entire Gail family,
You all have such a special place in my heart. Kevin is the biggest fighter I know and because of his determination & drive, I have no doubt in my mind that he will walk again and become stronger than ever. Kevin is always in my prayers and I love your family like my own. Love always, Hailey Stephens
Hailey Stephens
August 16, 2018
Prayers coming your way!
Jim Dwyer Jim Dwyer
August 16, 2018
We wish you well Kevin. You are always in our prayers. Dave & Donna
Donna Gardiner
August 15, 2018
Praying for your sweet family. xoxo.
Chris & Ally Redig
August 15, 2018
Wishing you all the luck and a full recovery!
Christine Miller
August 15, 2018
Good luck Kevin! xoxo
Maureen Ferguson McCadden
August 15, 2018
Kevin
The Owsik family and Sts Simon and Jude Parish in West Chester will keep you in our prayers. God Bless
Dave Owsik
August 15, 2018
Good luck Kevin!
Harry Ferguson
August 15, 2018
Prayers for you and your family.
Ethel Granahan
August 15, 2018
We are praying for you always Kevin. Our Lord is so good and we completely trust in Him that He will continue to be with you day by day on your road to recovery. We love you !
Michael Donnelly
August 12, 2018
Eileen and Jim
Paula and I are keeping you and your family in our prayers.
Sincerely
Bill & Paula Swain
William Swain
August 11, 2018
Sending prayers your way, Kevin. What a wonderful family you have to rally all this support and love.
Janine Padia
August 9, 2018
Please put this monthly donation towards the Pennsylvania Challenge.
Thank you,
Tim Murnane
Timothy Murnane Sr.
July 23, 2018
Sending prayers and love!
Marcia Berger
July 12, 2018
Sending prayers and support!
Robin Weinstein
July 10, 2018
Wishing Kevin the best. Keep fighting!
Beverly La Rock
July 9, 2018
Praying for you and your family. Peggy McCann
Marguerite McCann
July 9, 2018
Hi Kevin,
Keeping you in our prayers. May God continue to be your healer and your strength.
Sheila& Joe
Sheila & Joe Colosi
July 8, 2018
We have been lifting you and your family in prayers and will continue. Eileen continues to keep us posted which we are thankful for her updates.
Tina and Jim Wilson
July 8, 2018
Ongoing prayers for Kevin that his healing may continue.....and for Sue and all of their family.
Noreen and David Gloninger
Noreen Gloninger
July 7, 2018
Prayers to you and your family.
Rhonda Jordan
July 4, 2018
Dear Kevin,
I am blessed to be a life-long friend of Eileen's and a believer in miracles. YOU have been in my prayers over this past year. I praise God for the miracle of YOUR life and for the many miracles YOU will see in YOUR lifetime. We are blessed to love you from afar and grateful to be a part of this giving of Help Hope Live! Prayers continue for Sue and your family. Asking specifically for YOU to breathe without a respirator and while He's at it...for complete body restoration :) YOU are truly loved and are blessing so so many people with an incredible example of deep faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
With His Love,
Sandy Clark
Sandy Clark
July 3, 2018
Kevin, you are an incredible person; we feel blessed to have met you. We are praying for your continued progress!
Tom and Kate Regan
July 3, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Ray and Joanie Perry
Ray Perry
July 2, 2018
Miss being able to visit with you and Sue.
LORETTA DUGAN
July 1, 2018
Hoping for the best. Roy and Jackie Perry
Jacqueline Perry
June 27, 2018
A man who defined the art of giving over a lifetime, needs some help from us now. What a joy to have the chance. Love you brother.
Barry Gail
Mail a Check
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Kevin Jeans-Gail
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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