On December 30, 2011, Jack Jablonski, a hockey player for the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, was the victim of a violent check by two opponent skaters. The hit, which is common for the sport of hockey, was delivered with great force from behind and forced Jack into the glass in front of him. The hit would also leave Jack Jablonski paralyzed.
There was absolutely no malicious intent behind the check which left “Jabby” with a severed spinal cord. The players responsible for the accident were overcome by guilt and immediately sought out Jablonski to deliver sincere apologies to him and his family. With an inspiring show of true strength and a maturity not normally found within the character of most 16-year-olds, “Jabs” himself was overcome with concern over the players’ burden of guilt. Jack made them understand that it was only an accident and made sure they knew that he forgave them.
Jabs was informed that he would never walk or skate again. Last night, however, Jabs might have started down a path to prove his doctors wrong. Last night, for the first time since December 30, 2011, Jack Jablonski moved both of his arms. Although there is a long way to go along that path, he has certainly taken that first proverbial step in amazing fashion.
I have never met Jabs, but I certainly hope that I get the chance. I’m inspired by his strength, his maturity, his fight, and his will. He has drawn the love and respect by so many around him, and he gives each and every one of them so much hope. There are many obstacles ahead of the Jablonskis, and their new path may be difficult to traverse. I would like to help Jabs and his family on this journey in any way that I can. That is why I have included their banner (found on the left). I will also be including #jabs in all of my tweets throughout January. Not only that, but any money raised from Trading Up in 2012 will be donated to The Jack Jablonski Fund.
He’s an amazing individual and deserves our support. If you’d like to stay up-to-date on Jack’s progress, just visit his Caring Bridge page. If you’d like to help spread the word, please include #jabs in all of your tweets in January. If you’d like to donate, please click the banner on the left.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
