A Story of Hope

Dec 22, 2025 | News & Events

Last year, Jackie Whitman was hospitalized with pneumonia. Her condition swiftly progressed to septic shock and heart failure, requiring an emergency airlift to another medical center. It was a life-or-death situation.

Jackie is defined by her heart, determination, and resilience. This is a woman who starred as an All-American in field hockey at Northeastern University. This is the fighter who endured multiple surgeries, including the partial amputation of her fingers and both legs below the knee. And this is the wife and mother—to her husband Brian and their three children—who battled through pain, grief, exhaustion, and fear.

Jackie has made remarkable progress and is turning her experience into action, establishing her own foundation to help others facing unexpected health crises.

IMPACT MADE POSSIBLE BY YOU

Hope Strengthens Foundation is honored to support this inspiring family. Thanks to generous donors like you, we were privileged to provide resources that funded hand controls and modifications for Jackie’s vehicle. This crucial support returned a level of independence to Jackie, helping a busy mom of three have the opportunity to drive again!

THE NEXT STEP: CUSTOMIZED PROSTHETICS

We are now actively raising additional resources to help Jackie continue her recovery by assisting with the costs of her new, customized prosthetics and sockets. Achieving the right fit is a demanding process, as the prosthetics must be tailored exactly to her age, activity level, and future goals. Because customized prosthetics are expensive and insurance will not cover the full amount, we are aiming to raise $15,000 to cover the balance due.

Please join us in supporting Jackie’s next step towards independence. Tax-deductible donations of all sizes are welcome and will make a profound difference for Jackie and her family.

https://www.hopestrengthens.org/donate/

Thank you for your generosity and support!