Meet Champion, Jase

On his way to go swimming with his sister, Jase’s life changed in an instant when their car was t-boned by a semi-truck. Airlifted to HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital, he was placed in a coma for 15 days while machines supported nearly every function of his body. Jase had a traumatic brain injury, multiple brain bleeds, a skull fracture, lung contusions, broken bones, and a spleen laceration. His care included surgery to repair his shattered jaw with dissolvable plates and screws, a trach, and a G-tube. He fondly recalls compassionate nurses taking him to the pediatric healing garden for fresh air and therapy, lifting his spirits as he set out on a long journey toward recovery. After 12 weeks in rehab, Jase returned home and continued outpatient therapy. Today, he’s embraced life with resilience, taking part in football, baseball, and even bull riding, defying all expectations.