It goes without saying that an ice mogul to the spine will ruin your day, but it’s certainly not a given that a person will be strong enough and fortunate enough to work through a serious injury like this with the kind of determination and positive attitude that Jake Hickman has put forward throughout his recovery. Major commendations Jake! Keep doing what you’re doing. Same goes for High Fives. We’ll look forward to seeing you on the hill next season!
On December 22, 2011 Jake Hickman crashed while competing at a U.S. Freestyle Ski Team – Selection Competition. The impact caused a spiral compression fracture of Jake’s T8 vertebrae with an incomplete paralysis of the spinal cord. As with all athletes that the High Fives Foundation assists, Jake has shown a drive and a sense of positivity in his recovery that is absolutely inspiring. His work ethic and “can-do” attitude light up the room as he demonstrates on a daily basis his determination to return to the sport he loves.
The High Fives Foundation provided Jake with rehabilitative healing therapies such as Physical Therapy with Scott Williams (P.T.) of Synergy Therapeautics, Acupuncture with Tyler Lapkin (L.Ac), Massage Therapy with Karen Stubbs (L.M.T.) and one on one training with Chris Cloyd (Fitness Director – Performance Training Center by Julia Mancuso). These therapies along with time spent in the gym, with his TRX Suspension Training System and on the trails would not be possible without the generosity of 81 (and counting) donors that have directly contributed to this up and coming ski star.
To learn more about the Healing Network that Jake Hickman is utilizing, to donate to his recovery and to discover the story of the High Fives Foundation point your browser to highfivesfoundation.org. Also, stay up to date on upcoming events and information by following the High Fives Foundation on twitter and Facebook (twitter.com/hi5sfoundation andfacebook.com/highfivesfoundation).