Help Hope Live for Jake Lipponer

October 19, 2024

The past few months have been a whirlwind of activity!! Within weeks of purchasing the “new” accessible van, Jake was chosen by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota to participate in a very selective Spinal Cord Injury clinical study. In order for Jake to participate he had to meet the parameters of the study. Jake spent the next few months intensely preparing physically, mentally and spiritually. Some of the parameters included increased range of motion, strength & endurance aligned with good health and limited medication. The month long study started on September 6th. So, on September 2nd, Labor Day we took the accessible van that you all helped pay for, on a roadtrip to start this next phase of Jake’s journey. Jake, as the 18th participant in the study, through his ambition and desire to maximize this opportunity surpassed the expectations set by the team at Mayo. While he learned from the team, they learned from him as well. He demonstrated many things they had not experienced with the previous 17 participants. He was told that his involvement will benefit not only him but will help to push this study into its next phase. The education, information and network gained in this experience has been absolutely priceless. It has given Jake new direction and helped to identify a path that will help him to get to the next level. The stimulation device that they could only temporarily place in his spine documented what Jake has always known and tried to convey. His nerves are active and have potential to work again given proper direction. Jake’s mind and will is stronger than ever. He works daily to mend his body and as he always says “get back” to himself. Along this path, he is impacting the lives of others in ways we can only imagine. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us along Jake’s Road to Mobility. Thank you for making this ALL happen... We know we would not have been able to do this without you. This has been... and will be quite a journey. We Are Forever Grateful!!

June 4, 2024

WE DID IT!!!!

Because of you, our extended community… Last Monday, May 27, 2024, we as a family were able to take our maiden voyage in Jake’s retrofitted Ford Transit w/ a rear entry Millennial lift. We reached this milestone exactly on Jake’s 30th Birthday because of your love & support. Jake was able to partake in a dual celebration with his Uncle James @ his grandparent’s house in the next town over. This is a freedom Jake has not had in almost two years.

Jake continues to gain more & more strength and ability daily. He values the gift of networking & educating himself on steps to maximize his progress. Now, as of this month Jake will be able to partake in Physical, Occupational & Stimulation Therapies up to 4 days a week. He takes advantage of every opportunity that is available to him and is absolutely grateful.

Jake stated “I am extremely overwhelmed by the support from this amazing community. I am more motivated now than ever to push toward a full recovery. The van will immediately allow me to get access to alternative therapy such as acupuncture and another more advanced rehabilitation facility.”

Keep an eye out! We are hoping to have additional updates for you in the upcoming months!!!

We can not thank you enough for supporting Jake on this journey.

There are never enough words to express how grateful we are for your generosity & love. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!!