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Help support Jake's recovery

  • Merry Christmas!

      22 December 2020

    Hi everyone, now that this page has closed I would like to give thanks once more for all of your support and kind messages. It’s been a tough year but it’s good to know that from here on out things can only get better! I am looking forward to enjoying this summer and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2021.

      4 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 22/12/2020 by sheryn

      Thanks Jake. I watched the documentary last night, you have done so well under such horrific circumstances, from the ashes great things come and you now how an incredible inner strength that will see you achieve great things in the future. All the best :-)

    • 22/12/2020 by Dan

      Go well Jake. You’re an inspiration to us all.

    • 22/12/2020 by Donna

      All the best with your continued recovery Jake, you are are such an inspiration. Have a wonderful Christmas with your family this year, it has been a very tough year. Wishing you happy days and good health in the future I wish you all good things to come. Best Wishes Donna ( Kelseys Aunty )

    • 22/12/2020 by Gill

      Merry Christmas Jake. 🌲🥮🥂🎄

  • Documentary

      22 November 2020

    Hi everyone! For those of you in New Zealand who are interested, I’m just letting you all know that a documentary I have been involved with will be airing on TV3 tomorrow night (Monday 23rd) at 8:30pm. It delves into the events that happened the day of the eruption, and gives a bit of insight to how much of a challenge recovery has been for us all.

      8 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 22/11/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Hi Jake..your Grandmother's friend, Jill...told me about the Programme and we will definitely be watching.

      Do hope you are continuing to make great progress .

      Sending our best wishes.

      Dianne and Gordon.

    • 22/11/2020 by Gill

      Thanks Jake, will be sure to watch.

    • 22/11/2020 by Wendy

      Thanks heaps Jake - we will def be watching :-)

      Hope you and your family have a great Christmas, and you continue to progress well in your recovery journey.

      cheers

      Wendy

    • 22/11/2020 by Janet

      Hi there Jake!

      I will definitely be watching and meeting you and Kelsey in the flesh! It'll be a very hard time for you and I'm thinking of you both! Thanks so much for including me in your recovery! I'm very proud to know you and Kelsey. You have enriched my life immensely! Janet

    • 23/11/2020 by Sheryl

      Good to hear from you Jake and have been following your recovery with interest. You were one of my guides 2 weeks before the eruption and you had a real effect on me because of your professionalism, care and enthusiasm which surprised me in one so young.

      You have been a true inspiration and very brave.

      I should love to watch the documentary but, being in the UK, won’t be able to. I passed the information on to friends I made while travelling in NZ.

      All the best to you and good luck for the future.

      Sheryl

    • 25/11/2020 by Janet

      Wow Jake amazing documentary, you spoke so well! I cried throughout and now I can't delete the programme from the TV. It was raw and real and just fantastic. Your parents are just fantastic, I share your mum's name! No one will ever understand other than you and Kelsie how this tragedy has changed you and the pain you have had to go through. Inspirational! Janet

    • 08/12/2020 by Gill

      Hi Jake, just thinking of you today. Cheers Gill

    • 09/12/2020 by Chris

      Hello Jake,

      Happy Birthday and congratulations on the progress you have made in the last. You have worked incredibly hard and you should be very proud of yourself.

      We found the documentary sobering to watch and very moving. So pleased to have seen it as it was from the NZ perspective, not just from the point of view of the injured tourists.

      We hope you've had a special day, all the best.

      Chris & Trev Savage

  • Another update from Jake

      4 September 2020

    Hey everyone, just giving a quick update on my progress. The second part of my surgery went great, as I have now re-gained enough movement in my neck to be able to drive! Sometime down the track I will need to have more contracture release work done on my neck, but my most recent one has given me the freedom of being able to get out of the house whenever I want and not have to rely on others to get around. my hands also healed up nicely after my most recent surgery, and I have since been able to begin doing the things I love again. I have been able to get out on the boat and go fishing, and my dad and I have been whitebaiting at the Tarawera rivermouth and managed to catch a decent feed. This was a lot of fun but on both occasions I ended up with blisters on my palms due to my skin being so delicate. To try and make my physiotherapy sessions a little more interesting, I have been doing one of the local bush walks with my physiotherapists. I have been progressing further and further, having to take less breaks along the and way doing it much faster each time. I am continuing with my daily scar therapy regime, which consists of scar therapy massage, pressure garments and lots of moisturiser. Dealing with scars is a long-term battle but as long as we keep this work up we will begin to see positive changes. I'm grateful to the team that are working with me and continuing to support me along my journey.

      13 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 06/09/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Hello Jake....what a lot of positive progress you are making. We are so pleased to hear about your fishing and white baiting excursions. Love those whitebait fritters!

      The driving certainly gives you greater independence .

      The bush walks can be so therapeutic for you.

      Keep up the good work, Jake and thank you for keeping us posted on your progress . It is wonderful to hear from you.

      Kindest regards...

      Gordon and Dianne.

    • 06/09/2020 by Sarah

      Jake - you are an absolute machine !!!.

      Thank you for your little updates its fantastic to hear how well you are doing even through there will of course be new challenges that you come across as you progress. Your family must be so proud of you - you are truly inspirational.

      All the best - Sarah Cameron

    • 06/09/2020 by Bryan

      I'd like to add a little bit more to the fund. How can I do that?

      Bryan

    • 06/09/2020 by Antonette

      Happy to hear the good news. Stay strong. Stay safe & healthy always Jake. God bless.

    • 06/09/2020 by Helen

      Hi Jake So pleased to hear you are doing so well.I admire your stamina,as it must be quite hard for you and the family at times.Keep up the good work.I say a prayer for you every night.Take care .You are a very brave young man.

      Best wishes

      Helen

    • 06/09/2020 by Maria

      It's fantastic to read your update Jake and know you have made more great progress.

      You are doing an amazing job, surrounding by an amazing team, obviously.

      It's brilliant to see you are able to drive again and have been out fishing and whitebaiting.

      Stay strong and keep on keeping on - you have got so much support and love behind you from all over NZ and worldwide.

      Love to you and your family xx

    • 06/09/2020 by The Board

      What an incredible young man you are. You so deserve the progress you are noticing. How great.

      Keep on with that positivity. I imagine you will be on the celebratory speaker circuit one day, telling your story, and sharing your strength. Sending positive thoughts your way.

      Monique Balvert-O'Connor

    • 07/09/2020 by Janet

      Hi there Jake!

      Thanks so much for keeping us all in the loop about your progress. So pleased you can drive now and you're getting back some independence, that would have been bloody hard. I hope things are slowly becoming more bearable and you're having some fun. That's what you need in your life now, fun, fun, and more fun. Exciting trips whitebaiting! Go you.

    • 07/09/2020 by Stephanie

      You are truly inspirational Jake, thank you so much for the update.

      Steph

    • 08/09/2020 by Pawl

      Hi Jake, I’m so glad to hear your excellent progress. Congratulations on your achievements. You should be very proud of them. It’s been a challenging year for most of us, but your bravery puts it all into perspective. You stood out as an exceptional young man when I had the brief pleasure of meeting you on my White Island trip. You are an inspiration for sure. I wish you the very best as your journey continues. Best Wishes Pawl

    • 08/09/2020 by Pawl

      Hi Jake, I’m so glad to hear your excellent progress. Congratulations on your achievements. You should be very proud of them. It’s been a challenging year for most of us, but your bravery puts it all into perspective. You stood out as an exceptional young man when I had the brief pleasure of meeting you on my White Island trip. You are an inspiration for sure. I wish you the very best as your journey continues. Best Wishes Pawl

    • 09/09/2020 by Wendy

      WOW Jake reading your posts is soooo inspiring. Take care, stay well and keep enjoying life

    • 13/09/2020 by Gill

      Really proud of you and your fighting spirit

  • 6 months

      9 June 2020
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    It’s been 6 months. What a crazy time it has been for everyone 😅 the last few months seem to have flown by but at the same time it feels like it has been a lifetime since my 19th birthday. I have just got home last week from an 8 day stay in hospital following my most recent surgery which involved multiple contracture releases. The surgery went great and the wounds are all healing up nicely. I will be going back in a couple of weeks for a second round of surgery, so fingers crossed that all goes well too. Since being home I’ve been doing what I can with my physiotherapists, mainly lower body and cardio exercises while my hands are out of action. Again a massive thank you to all of you who have continued to send messages of support, you have all helped to give me the motivation I need to keep working hard towards my goals!

      4 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 10/06/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Hi Jake ...so pleased to hear that your recent surgery went well. It has been a challenging six months but wonderful that your recovery is going to plan. We know it is a long process and wish you all the best for the next stage of your rehabilitation.

      Thinking of you and we really appreciate receiving your updates.

      Kindest regards.

      Gordon and Dianne.

    • 10/06/2020 by The Board

      What an inspiration you are. You could go on the Inspirational Speakers circuit and earn some money - you would be a fantastic person for school children to learn from - and at service groups etc etc. You have a phenomenal story to tell and have such a great attitude. Think of all the things... like hope and perseverance and positivity... that people could learn from you. Just keep on being wonderful.

    • 10/06/2020 by Wendy

      Wow Jake I'm in awe of your positivity and strength. You are an inspiration! I have cared for others with burns so have a small insight into your journey - tough on every level.

      Go well young man,

      Wendy

    • 13/09/2020 by Gill

      You're doing brilliantly Jake. Keep it up my sweets. Best wishes.

  • Extended

      5 June 2020

    Due to Jake's long road to recovery, we have extended the page. He will be receiving further operations and rehabilitation for quite sometime. We would like to thank everyone for there generous donations, and messages of support, these messages have been very comforting for Jake and his family.

    These funds will go along way to ensure Jake has the best possible care and resources needed to give him the best possible life moving forward. Thanks again for all of your amazing support.

      1 comment  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 13/06/2020 by Gill

      Hi Jake, just sending you all the best wishes in the world. I am so proud of you, what a wonderful young man you are. I hope the next round of surgeries goes well too.

  • Life at home

      24 May 2020
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    Hi everyone, just a quick update about how life has been since being discharged from hospital. It was a little bit different coming home to lockdown but it gave us the opportunity to settle into a good routine with my physio, splints, garments etc. Now being in level 2 I’m finally able to have face to face appointments with my physiotherapists and occupational therapists that I really needed, as it is much more effective than a zoom call. Working with my physios has helped me to tick off a few of the goals I had, some of these were things as small as putting on my socks and shoes by myself. The move to level 2 also meant that we were able to get our dog back from Auckland. Because I transferred to Waikato hospital during level 4 of lockdown, we weren’t allowed to go back to get her when we came home to whakatane. It’s really nice to have her home and I also have enjoyed spending some time with my friends again. I have been out with my Dad fishing off the beach, and it was awesome to finally catch a feed of fresh fish after many months without a rod in my hand. I’m heading to Waikato Hospital tomorrow morning for surgery, where they will be releasing my neck and some other tight areas that are restricted by scarring and tight skin. I’m not exactly looking forward to it but I am excited to see the positive outcomes that these procedures will have on my future range of motion. I would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming support that I have received from all around the world, and especially from my home town of Whakatane. All of your kind messages inspire me every day to keep working hard on my road to recovery, again I wouldn’t be where I am today without all the love and support that I have received. I look forward to sharing my story with you as soon as I am able 😊

      12 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 24/05/2020 by Tania

      Jake I have no doubt you are going to take this life changing event and use it for positive things in the future. You are an inspiration and its heartwarming to see and hear your updates. Awesome work getting to where you are now, stay strong and good luck for your surgery tomorrow. Not all heroes wear capes <3

    • 24/05/2020 by Belinda Tafua, Johneen Atkinson and Robyn Sievwright

      All the very best for your surgery. Sending lots of positive thoughts your way. Thank you for your amazing updates.

    • 24/05/2020 by Kate

      You're a remarkable and very inspiring young man, Jake. It's not the difficulties in life that define us, it is how we deal with them and learn from them that really matters. You have already had far more than your share of life's difficulties to contend with at such a young age, yet you display strength, courage, optimism, and wisdom that's normally seen in only a very few. Your amazing qualities will continue to carry you through, and no doubt you'll forever bring inspiration and joy to all those whose lives you touch.

    • 25/05/2020 by Janet

      Hi there Jake!

      Thanks for giving us updates over the past few months. I like to hear about your triumphs, fishing and especially getting the dog back. That would have terrible to be parted from her.

      Yeah more surgery sucks, but you've come such a long way. God you've had some shit things happen with lock down on top of everything else.

      Go you, so proud to have been able to hear about your brave journey.

      Janet

    • 25/05/2020 by Gill

      Bravo Jake. So proud of you and your determination. Also delighted that some normalities have returned. Wishing you all the very best for your surgeries. Looking forward to the next update.

    • 25/05/2020 by Helen

      Hi Jake Great to hear that you are enjoying a it more freedom.I think you should be so proud of what you have achieved.You are a very inspiring young man.I remember you in my prayers every night. I always say a special prayer for you.I have two grandsons,who are very precious to me.Take care keep up the good work.I can see you have such great support from your family and friends.

      Take care

      Helen Todd

    • 25/05/2020 by Kiri

      Morena Jake, it's awesome to hear of your progress and how things for you are slowly but surely getting back to a new normality for you. You are truly courageous. Good on you. Look forward to hearing about your ongoing recovery. Regards Kiri

    • 25/05/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Thinking of you as you face another round of surgical procedures, Jake. We know that the healing process takes time ...you are doing so well with your positive attitude and the caring support from so many people. We are with you all the way on this journey to restored health,....sending our best wishes...Dianne and Gordon.

    • 25/05/2020 by Tim and

      Great to hear of your progress Jake

      (Thank you Rebecca)

      50 years ago I began my life as an orthopaedic surgeon at Middlemore Hospital.

      You know it well!

      There were many "Jakes", different injuries but the same indomitable spirit that you display Jake.

      One such was a young fellow your age who was run over by a train!

      During the crisis days that followed I remember standing with the team and all eyes were on me!

      It was a hopeless situation.

      I didn't have a plan.

      I went to his family and said "We'll win"

      I always win!"

      No words, the faces said all that was needed.

      We won!

      He is now a grandfather with a successful life behind him.

      We maintain contact all these years later.

      You will win Jake.

      Only you know how tough it has been and will continue to be.

      But you will win Jake.

      Best to you, your Mum, your Dad and all your whanau

      Tim

    • 25/05/2020 by The Board

      All the very best for the next surgery. You are one brave human.

      Love that you have been reunited with your dog - that is special.

      Wishing strength upon you.

      Monique :0)

    • 27/05/2020 by Vanessa

      I hope the surgery has gone well Jake. I can only imagine how wonderful it would have been to head out fishing recently and be reunited with your dog! Thanks for sharing your updates. Kia Kaha xx

    • 05/06/2020 by Chanel

      Jake, great to know that you're getting stronger, acknowledging every moment and all you've achieved.

  • Finally home!

      3 April 2020
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    116 long days ago, my life, along with many others was changed forever. During my time in hospital I managed to rack up a whopping 25 trips to the operating room, and I must say, my surgeons have done a remarkable job. I was told that when it came to possible infections, it wasn’t a matter of if, but rather when. I was fortunate enough to go this entire time without a single infection or setback, which is absolutely amazing. When I was first admitted to hospital my family were told that I could be in intensive care for at least 3 to 4 months, and that my stay in hospital could go on as long as six months or more. After almost 4 months of operations, physiotherapy, and loads of moisturisation, I’m happy to say that today, my stay in hospital is finally coming to an end! To be able to walk out of hospital in less than four months after sustaining 80% burns is almost unheard of, and I owe it all to my amazing team of doctors, nurses, Physios and occupational therapists for getting me out in what must be almost record time. But most of all I owe it to my family, who have been with me every step of the way, assisting me with my cares and my every need. I also have to thank my friends, for always visiting me and keeping me sane during this long, hard time. To everyone In New Zealand and all around the world who have been showing me their ongoing love and support, I cannot thank you enough. You have all given me the strength and encouragement I needed, to keep working hard, and striving for the best possible outcome. I still have a very long road ahead in terms of my rehabilitation and recovery, but with the help of my family and friends as well as worldwide support I know I will get there one day. It is a shame to be going out of almost 4 months isolation, straight back in to isolation, but it is just good to be home.

      10 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 05/04/2020 by Kristina

      SO happy to hear your good news!! Hugs and high fives from Colorado Springs, Colorado!

    • 05/04/2020 by Lynne

      Well done Jake! We hope your recovery continues at pace. Being at home will be amazing after so long in hospital. Take care and all the best!

    • 05/04/2020 by Janet

      Geez Jake!

      Yes it's a buggar to be going down into lockdown of a different sort, but it's on the road to recovery and that's the main thing. And your with your dog, which will make all the difference. And we're still squeezing a bit of summer out the days. And New Zealand is a good place to be. I love getting the updates and hearing about you. What an amazing recovery, and your friends and family will be just so happy to have you with them.

      You've made my day!!!!

      Janet

    • 05/04/2020 by tristan

      Hey Jake, I've been following your recovery wishing you blessings from afar. I am so pleased for you and your family and friends. I truly cannot believe the recovery you have made to come away with what you went through with 80% full burns. So I salute your bravery and wish you all the best with the ongoing mental recovery which i imagine will be really tough but not as recognisable to outsiders. My sister has been through a survivor ordeal too and I have seen what she's been through. One step at a time mate. You're an inspiration to us all in nz. Keep up your amazing attitude and see the lock down as a blessing to aid your next stage of recovery.

      Kind regards

      Tristan

    • 05/04/2020 by Helen

      Hi Jake Lovely to hear you are doing so well.Great to hear you have such wonderful support from family and friends.I say a prayer for you every night.

      Keep up the good work

      Take care

      Helen Todd

    • 05/04/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Jake you are absolutely amazing and your positive attitude has helped you through your journey to recovery. You have shown gratitude to all the wonderful people who have been part of your recovery and we are so thrilled that you have reached this point in record time considering the severity of your burns.

      Thank you so much for keeping us up to date as it means a lot to know that things are going well for you.

      Kindest regards from Dianne and Gordon.

    • 05/04/2020 by Donna

      Wow ! So happy for you to go home Jake brings tears to our eyes, you are doing so well, we know there is a long road ahead, but you can do it. We have followed your progress from Dec 9 as we are related to Kelsey. Keep up the good fight, one day at a time. Sending so much love to you and your wonderful family. Love D & D xx

    • 06/04/2020 by Chanel

      Excellent progress Jake. You've got guts.

    • 07/04/2020 by Vanessa

      Kia ora Jake

      Your update is so heartening to read and I can only imagine how great it must feel to finally be home. I wish you much love and strength in this next chapter of your life, your courage and determination are inspiring. Take heart that there are many of us (out here in our bubbles!) wishing the very best for you.

      Arohanui,

      Vanessa

    • 19/04/2020 by Maxine

      Hi Jake,

      It is so good to see you recovering. You must have an amazing strength of character. We wish you all the best in your ongoing recovery and continued positivity and we look forward to hearing about the amazing things you will do in the future.

      Take care and kindest regards,

      The Morris family

  • Another update from Jake

      11 March 2020

    Hello everyone, once again I would like to give a big thank you to all of you that have continued to support and encourage me on my road to recovery.

    The last 94 days have been the most challenging days of my life but each and every one of them I have been getting stronger and stronger. To date I have had 23 trips to theatre, and more recently my nurses have began doing my dressing changes on the ward and as of last week I have started to have my dressings changed in my own room in the burns unit. On the 1st of March for the first time I was allowed to leave the hospital. I was able to see my dog for the first time in almost 3 months which was such an amazing feeling, and it was also my Aunty’s birthday so I got to spend the afternoon with my family to celebrate.

    I am now fully grafted which means my physio regime has been getting more and more intense as my skin grafts heal. From walking on the treadmill to pumping iron (a 1kg weight in each hand) we are seeing improvements every day. I am finally beginning to gain weight and have put on 3 kgs in the last 3 weeks.

    My friends have been so awesome driving almost an 8 hour round trip from Whakatane to see me nearly every weekend and I have also had quite a few visits from my colleagues at White Island Tours which has been great. Words can’t even express how amazing my family have been, they have been so supportive, keeping me company and bringing me home cooked meals, I can’t thank them enough.

    I am looking forward to spending more time out of the hospital and eventually being home with my friends and family but at this stage we are not quite sure when that might be, meaning that for now my main focus is getting in the gym with my rehab team. I am looking forward to sharing some more good news regarding my recovery with you all in the future!

    Jake 😊

      11 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 12/03/2020 by Lyn and Noel

      So pleased to hear of your great progress. You are a very strong young man, both physically and emotionally, and I am sure you will continue to make great strides and be home soon 😊

    • 12/03/2020 by Brenda

      Hi Jake So glad that you are making such amazing progress my son worked for White Island at the motel and we felt very deeply about the eruption so great to se you are able to get home sending love and healing

    • 12/03/2020 by The Board

      You are incredible. I love that you could see your dog, and I am sure you are more than deserving of all the support you are getting from your old friends, (new friends too no doubt), and your family. I am wishing strength upon you and sending you smiles.

    • 12/03/2020 by Helen

      Hi Jake always great to hear how you are doing.I am so pleased you are doing so well.It sounds like you are very determined.Lovely that you mates and family are there to give you love and support.I say a prayer for you every night.

      Take care

      Helen Todd

    • 12/03/2020 by Belinda Tafua, Johneen Atkinson and Robyn Sievwright

      Thats awesome Jake. Thanks for the updates. You are an amazing young man. Keep it up.

      Cheers Belinda

    • 12/03/2020 by Ailee

      Hi Jake, your updates has brighten the day thank you, keep it up!

    • 13/03/2020 by Janet

      Hi there Jake!

      Thanks so much for keeping us updated. I get shivers up my spine thinking how courageous you've been. And of course I'm so pleased you got to see your dog. I couldn't be without mine. Great friends and family, that's amazing as well. You're so bloody positive, you're an inspiration to us all. Continue improving, you'll be two kilo weights in no time.

      Janet

    • 13/03/2020 by Lynne

      You are such a very brave young man and your positive attitude and hopes for the future will carry you through the dark days. Know that everyone is holding you in their hearts and wishing you a full recovery. All the best!

    • 13/03/2020 by Jocelyne

      Hi Jake!

      Greetings from Canada. So good to hear that you are getting stronger every day and that you were able to see your dog! I'm sure he was as excited to see you as you were to see him! We are so proud of you; to see how hard you are working and how every day you get stronger! We think of you and Kelsey often as you both made our trip magical! Sounds like you have an amazing family by your side and there is nothing better than a nice home-cooked meal! We were so happy to hear that you were able to use your I-pad! We may be across the world but love hearing about your accomplishments and are so very proud of you! We look forward to your next update!

      Jocelyne and Brad

    • 13/03/2020 by Gordon and Dianne

      Hi Jake...we were so happy to see you in the Herald and on TV .You look wonderful Jake and we are so amazed to hear about the daily procedures that you have so bravely endured.

      I had a phone call from your Grandmother ,Carolyn and she gave me details of your progress. Our son was burnt when he was 10 so we were aware of the long journey to recovery, and wanted to help on the Give a little page.

      It is wonderful that you are able to spend some time out of hospital now.

      We wish you all the best with your physio ,gym work with your rehab team. There are so many fantastic people helping you on this journey back to good health.

      Sending our very best wishes.....Dianne and Gordon.

    • 20/03/2020 by Wendy

      hello Jake,

      Thank you so much for taking the time and no doubt huge amount of energy in writing this update. It gave us goose bumps reading the insight you have given into your journey so far - we are in awe of your strength and bravery.

      Go well.

      Wendy

  • An Update from Jake

      19 January 2020

    To everybody who has been supporting me I would like to say a big Thank You. We are grateful for the kind donations received through the Givealittle page and I am enjoying reading the awesome messages and comments that have come, they’ve really helped me.

    A few days ago I moved out of ICU and into the National Burns Centre. This is a big step in my road to recovery. So far I have had 14 visits to theatre – sometimes the surgeons are grafting parts of my body and other times they are changing my dressings and checking out the progress of the work they have done.

    Now that my fingers are no longer bandaged I have been able to use my iPad to catch up with my friends.

    Thank you so much for your kindness – it means a lot to me.

    Jake Milbank

      23 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 19/01/2020 by Ailee

      Dear Jake,

      Best wishes for your smooth recovery...

      Sarah n family

    • 20/01/2020 by Gail

      Hey Jake

      I don't know you but am so pleased that you are well on the road to recovery!!!

      Keep at it, sounds like you are a fighter, can't believe what you have been through so far for someone so young.

      All the best xxx

    • 20/01/2020 by Glenn

      Never far from my thoughts - keep getting better dude

      lots of love

      glenn

    • 20/01/2020 by Ann and Gavin

      Hi Jake

      Thanks so much for the update your continuing improvement is heartwarming.

      Big loves to Mum (Janet and Sister Rebecca) and of course you. Our Rebecca (Holder) has told us so much about you and what a strong passionate young man you are

      Keep up the good work

      Our thoughts are with you

      Ann & Gavin

    • 20/01/2020 by Sue

      Hi Jake ,Thankyou so much for your update -so very thrilled to hear that you progressing so well ! No doubt you are able to have more visitors too which will be great -I worked at Middlemore in ICU and with people who had burns many years ago so I can imagine that it will be fantastic to be out of ICU and in the Burns IUnit .Beautful day here at the beach not far from Auckland -hope it’s not too long until you can be outdoors again .Keep up the awesome work -you’re obviously a spirit of true strength !With heaps of positive thoughts to you -Kia kaha 👍😊

    • 20/01/2020 by Antonette

      Hi Jake, It’s great to hear that your fingers are out of bandages already... praying for your speedy full recovery... you are in our thoughts and prayers 😊

    • 20/01/2020 by Janet

      Oh wow Jake!

      So cool you're using the iPad! I've got goosebumps just reading your message! I've never given on the Give A Little Page but couldn't stop thinking about both you and Kelsey.

      I'm so pleased you've got friends and family around you. Bloody tough times for you guys! Oh and sympathy is all very good, but I guess you sometimes you must get over it!!!

      You're not missing the non-summer we're having, Wellington is bloody freezing and windy. I'm thinking a shift to Taupo might be in order.

      Love hearing about you guys!!!

      Janet

    • 20/01/2020 by Robyn

      Hi Jake

      Mark and I do not know you but we are friends of Craig and Pene through the ski club. It is good to hear you are moving forward in your journey our thoughts are with you, your mum dad, sister and all your friends and fam who will be there for you every step of the way. Go well Jake and keep getting a little bit stronger each day. Mark and Robyn

    • 20/01/2020 by Lynne

      All the best Jake - like me, there will be hundreds of people that have never met you, but we're all willing you on. Kind regards from the Richardson family

    • 20/01/2020 by Chanel

      Kia ora Jake

      I don't know you Jake but I thought I'd say gidday and let you know that I'm really happy to hear that things are moving the right direction for you and that you are feeling a bit better. Great stuff!

      Best wishes Chanel

    • 20/01/2020 by Karen

      Hi Jake

      Wonderful to receive and read your update - so pleased to hear you're making progress and out of ICU.

      We really just wanted you to know that you and your family are in our thoughts. Sending you lots of love and positive wishes.

      Karen, Poppy & Steve

    • 20/01/2020 by Anthony

      Hi Jake; great to hear that you are out of ICU and are also now able to communicate with your friends and loved ones. All the very best for your continued recovery. Cheers.

    • 20/01/2020 by Helen

      Hi Jake So pleased to hear you are doing a lot better.I am a Grandmother and have two grandsons. When I saw your photo,I thought of my boys. Just thinking of you and I remember you in my prayers every night.

      Take care

      Love and hugs to you and your family

      Helen

    • 20/01/2020 by tristan

      We've been following your progress closely Jake, i have to say, you are a legend, it's incredible that you're up and typing after 85% burns. What an amazing example of bravery and patience. You've got this far so hopefully this is past the crux. We are holding you in our thoughts. Arohanui, kia kaha

    • 20/01/2020 by Gill

      Dear Jake you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. What an amazing young man you are. Keep fighting my darling. Love Gill Molony

    • 21/01/2020 by Joanne

      Hi Jake,

      You don't know me but my dad, Hugh and your grandfather Paul were lifelong friends since they were young boys. You may or may not have met my dad (he passed away in 2016) but if he was alive today he would have been really upset about what has happened to you. You look like an amazing young man, who has defied the odds and recovering really well. I am so pleased to hear your fantastic progress. Hopefully one day I will have the honour of meeting you. Kia Kaha.

      Joanne xx

    • 21/01/2020 by Christine

      Hey Jake

      How cool that you can now speak for yourself! I'm one of Mum's bridge friends-the one who was so disapproving of that little possum you kept -that is until he grew hair and I came to see how cute Neo was. I guess he finally made it out into the big cage at your mate's place.

      We bridge ladies talk of you and your mum often and are so impressed at the huge courage you have shown.

      Kia kaha Jake

      Arohanui Christine

    • 21/01/2020 by Vanessa

      Sending strength and aroha your way. You are in the thoughts of many and we are willing you on.

    • 22/01/2020 by kal

      Hi Jake,

      So great to hear you are recovering well.

      One love

    • 22/01/2020 by Claire

      Hi Jake,

      You don’t know me, but I have been thinking of you and praying for you. I am so glad to hear your news that you are out of ICU and on the road to recovery. I support plastics and burns doctors here in the UK, so that is why your story caught my attention. I wish you all the best. Keep fighting, everyone is behind you and rooting for you. Claire.

    • 23/01/2020 by Lois (Sandie) Pedersen

      Hi Jake, I don't know you but in this beautiful country we are all one and it brightened my day to know you are recovering well. Take care and know we are all very proud of you. Cheers, Sandie

    • 06/02/2020 by Lia

      Jake, we are so happy you are still with us. We pray for you and your family every day. Stay positive, stay hopeful, our hearts are with you all.

    • 10/02/2020 by Marleen

      Jake, I am from British Columbia,Canada. I am happy to hear that you can communicate with us. Everything happens for a reason, and good will come out of this. We have to believe it. Keep going forward ❤️❤️❤️

  • Thank you

      19 December 2019

    Just to let you all know that the beautiful messages that are flowing through here are really helping the family. Thank you for your support. Xxx

      5 comments  |  Login to leave a comment

    • 20/12/2019 by Sue

      Continuing to pray for Jake's recovery. So pleased to read that he is breathing on his own. A request please: it would be helpful if you could give some medical updates so that there are specific things to target. Thanks

    • 20/12/2019 by Laurie

      Hi my name is Laurie, I took care of jake on the boat. I stood by his side the entire way back to Whakatane. My thoughts are always with Jake and his Family. I wish you all the very best and a speedy recovery for Jake. I only met Jake for about an hour and a half but he showed incredible strength and courage i will never forget you mate. Lots of love from my family to yours

    • 09/01/2020 by Cyn Smith

      Time continues on but New Zealand has not forgotten you and we think of you on your recovery mission every day. Kia kaha.

    • 21/01/2020 by Jane Kellahan

      Hi jake

      Ive been following your progress and thinking about you and your head space. I feel really positive about your recovery. Not sure what you will be physically able to do once out of hospital but i would love to offer you my 25 years of experience in making art/painting. Its a very powerful, healing and relaxing activity, expressing your thoughts onto canvas whilst cranking up the music. Not sure if this is your thing at all but would love to help you if required. At no cost of course. Best wishes. Www.janekellahan.co.nz

    • 22/01/2020 by Sheila

      Hello. As you’ll see from my email address. I’m English. Want to convey how I’ve been praying & thinking of you. You’re so brave. Courageous too.

      I pray for you & your family every day.God bless.