In Honor of
James Fernandez
Clearwater, FL
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James Fernandez Therapy Assistance
About James
James Fernandez, 42, a devoted father of two young boys ages 9 and 14 months, a loving husband, and formerly a passionate middle school science teacher at Palm Harbor Middle School in Pinellas County, Florida.
He’s a science nerd – can spew out the scientific name of almost any creature on the planet, and facts that are so obscure about birds you’ll start laughing.
James is a true adventurer. He’s traveled, surfed, biked, and scaled most corners of the globe. He never sat still and loved to move his body in any way he could.
What Happened
For the Thanksgiving holiday last year, James traveled to Peru with his wife, Alexis, their new baby, and close friends Yuri and Kelsey, along with their baby, for what was meant to be a trip of a lifetime.
During their time in Cusco, James and Yuri went downhill mountain biking with a guide. In a tragic turn of events, a lightning strike hit Yuri, instantly taking his life. The same strike also hit James and the guide. James lost consciousness resulting in a horrific crash that left him with multiple neck fractures and injury to his spinal cord. He is a complete quadriplegic, with no motor function or feeling from his chest down.
Why We’re Fundraising
James now faces a long and uncertain road to recovery. Since November, he has been at in patient rehab for 3 months, successfully weaned from the ventilator, has learned how to operate a chair through his breath, and is becoming acclimated in his new life at home.
This injury is life altering but James wakes up every day with a positive can-do attitude and is finding joy in every way he can.
One of the best, and only ways, for James to regain any function is through consistent physical and occupational therapy. Since attending Neubility Rehabilitation and Wellness, only a short 25-minute drive from home, he is gaining strength in his biceps and forearms, and more mobility in his shoulders and neck. Unfortunately, therapy at this facility is not covered by private insurance and his family is paying for sessions out of pocket ($120 for one hour session).
Your support to keep James in therapy is greatly appreciated.
Past News:
https://www.fox13news.com/news/palm-harbor-science-teacher-community-tragic-lightning-strike-peru
https://people.com/dad-saw-sudden-flash-when-he-woke-up-neck-broken-friend-dead-exclusive-11889102
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