Cumming's 3-Year-Old Tough Guy

Jacob Helvey's road to recovery is powered by his parents, doctors and a community that cares.

Life is not accident-proof. When 3-year-old Jacob was  on Christmas Eve afternoon in 2010, the Forsyth County Fire Department, Sheriff's Office and paramedics came to the rescue. Add that to the support and prayers of Cumming's community members and you've got what any family would hope for if they were faced with the same situation.

The much needed support as well as fundraisers are helping Jacob and his family get through what will be an intensive rehabilitation program to get Jacob back to the priority of playing and enjoying typical toddler activities.

According to neighbor and close family friend, Shelley Smith, the Helvey family has been overwhelmed by the love, prayer and support from friends, family and the community. "They are extremely appreciative and Mike (Jacob's father) often makes personal thank-you calls to people each week just to let them know how important their support has been and what a huge positive impact it has made in their lives," says Smith.

Additional fundraisers are underway including a at West Forsyth High School at 9 a.m. and a at Robin Hood Tavern this Saturday, Feb. 26 from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. Donations of $5.00 at the door benefit the Helvey family.

Jacob has been making progress since the initial stages of his injuries, according to the Caring Pages Web site established for the little boy. Doctors did not initially expect him to survive.

Well, Jacob has not only survived, but Cumming's little tough guy recently rode his tricycle 600 feet with support from staff and parents at Scottish Rite Hospital (where he's been since Christmas Eve 2010).

"Jacob is a sweet soul who is such a fighter. He amazes us every day with what he tries to accomplish in therapy and it shows us that he's not going to give up," says Shelley who regularly stays in touch with Jacob's parents (Brandi and Mike) for updates. "Jacob has accomplished way more than doctors ever expected," adds Smith who is hopeful Jacob will soon walk and talk on his own again.

Given Jacob's track-record for determination and the love of family and friends, his future looks quite bright.

For information on how you can help Jacob and his family through the challenging rehabilitation process, please join the fun at one of the local fundraisers, post a prayer or message in the guest book on Jacob's Caring Bridge page or visit Caring Bridge.org for donation information.