Update: Jonathon Millar’s Recover

As we all begin our summer plans, we did receive an update on Jonathon Millar’s progress.  Below is an update directly from his wife Kelly:

I wanted to reach out today and give you an update on Jonathon’s incredible progress. I also wanted to thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. Your support has been critical in the progress that Jonathon has made. We stand on the shoulders of giants . . .  and for you and that fact, we are grateful.

The last 10 weeks of our lives have been a whirlwind filled with chaos, fear, and confusion, yet at the same time it has been incredibly powerful, and joy filled.

In the beginning, I was terrified that Jonathon may not survive. I was overwhelmed with grief and sadness of what our lives were going to look like; and of course, I feared of what the future held for him. At times, devastating and sometimes debilitating, I knew deep in my soul that my husband was fierce, and that somehow . . . we would get through this.

Shepherds Center was life changing for us. I knew wholeheartedly that this “house of miracles” was going to forever change the trajectory of our lives. The care that we have received here is nothing short of legendary, and it is because of the people in this hospital that Jonathon is where he is today.

I have witnessed firsthand the power of the human spirit in my husband, and having a front row seat, watching him navigate this new normal has been an absolute privilege.

Jonathon is an inspiration to me, and to so many around him, and he has exceeded the expectations of his therapists and doctors. His tenacity and grit are incredible to watch.

On Monday, we will be transported on a medical aircraft back to St. Mary’s Hospital in West Palm, Florida, again assisted in part by the Kevin Babington Foundation. There he will undergo surgery for a craniotomy to replace the portion of skull that was initially removed.

Following surgery, and a few days of recovery time, we will be returning to Atlanta, Georgia to spend the next 4-6 weeks in an intensive outpatient program through Shepherd Center called Pathways.

We have been equipped with training and new how- to’s, and despite the unknown, Jonathon and I have nothing but gratitude that we are leaving here together hand in hand and side by side. One foot in front of the other, and one day at a time we can and will do this.

We are eternally grateful for the excellent patient care received from the staff at Shepherd Center and we will be forever grateful for the continued support of the equestrian community, as well as of our family and friends. We are so very grateful for you and The Kevin Babington Foundation for rallying around us, and for helping us navigate this difficult time in our lives.

From the bottom of our hearts…we thank you.

With sincere gratitude,