Ken Jernigan: Teacher, coach, grandpa

Hi,

My name is Dan and Ken is my cousin, but also my brother. Almost two months ago he was the victim of an attempted home invasion where he was violently stabbed in the abdomen, requiring multiple surgeries, almost six weeks in and out of the hospitals, and now terminated by the school where he was teaching at-risk youth.

His medical bills are mounting and without the insurance he had counted on from his position as a teacher he faces an enormous uphill battle that he never expected.

A little background on my brother;

From a very young age, due to circumstances beyond his control, he was tasked with raising and looking out for his two younger siblings. I still remember as young boys when I would visit him how he took their care and safety far more seriously than any nine-year-old should have to, putting himself last as he made sure his baby brother and sister had enough to eat, their diapers changed as he tucked them safely into bed. He had to do a man's job but even then he rose to the occasion and although we have had our differences over the years-I have always respected the way he pulled himself up by the bootstraps and made a success out of himself. In the years that followed he not only played varsity level sports but continued to pursue his education as he ended up with a master's degree and traveled the world.

Ken has taught and coached our kids for over thirty years and was continuing to do so until a violent act by a stranger got in the way, but being a fighter all his life he isn't giving up-even as he endured a painful process that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

His children have followed in their dad's example, traveling the world, helping other cultures along the way, and in between raising three beautiful kids and graduating from the University of Michigan among their many accomplishments.

Their papa taught them well, but now he needs a little help.

He's too proud to ask for it, always managing to find his own way throughout life, but now I would ask you you donate if you can, share this story of tenacity and perseverance with friends and family, and let's see if we as a community can help a man who has given so much of his life to help others grow.

Thank you and God Bless