Florence Comes Together for Scotty Jones
Florence, SC — A strong sense of community has come alive in Florence as residents rally around Scotty Jones, a local man facing immense challenges following a series of difficult surgeries. At 58 years old, Scotty’s life took a dramatic turn in August 2021 when he was diagnosed with a paraspinal mass that led to discitis and osteomyelitis in his thoracic spine. This condition resulted in him losing all feeling from the waist down, a heart-wrenching reality for someone who grew up in the outdoors, enjoying activities like fishing and hunting.
Over the past three years, Scotty has undergone four major surgeries, with the last two lasting between 10 and 12 hours. His journey through recovery has been anything but easy. After each surgery, Scotty faced lengthy rehabilitation periods at facilities like the Regency Hospital and the Encompass Inpatient Rehabilitation Center. Even after returning home, a bad fall forced him back into surgery when swelling returned to his spine. Each setback has only made him more determined to regain his mobility.
The Road to Recovery
Scotty Jones’ father, Ronald Jones, expressed admiration for his son’s fighting spirit. “He’s really worked hard trying to get back to walk, and he’s still working at it,” Ronald shared. Despite enduring pain and frustration, Scotty maintains an optimistic outlook and a fierce determination to overcome his challenges. He’s currently engaged in outpatient therapy, home workouts, and sessions with a trainer at a local gym.
Scotty’s family, including his father, his daughter Kaitlin Carter, his son Brayden Jones, and his granddaughter Mills, have been his biggest supporters through this challenging time. Ronald remarked, “It’s been a real struggle for all of us, but he has never given up.”
A Community Rallies Together
In response to the financial burdens Scotty and his family have faced due to his medical bills, the community has come together with a fundraising event. Cooks for Christ is hosting a chicken bog benefit dinner to help alleviate some of the financial stress. Volunteer Beverly McKee explained the importance of such events, saying, “He needs the funds for all of his medical issues, and we can’t do it without the community.”
The benefit is set to take place on October 17 at the West Florence Fire Station, located at 3379 Pine Needles Road in Florence. Meals will be served from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and drive-thru lanes will be available for those who prefer to pick up their meals on the go. The menu includes a hearty serving of chicken bog accompanied by green beans, slaw, and bread, priced at just $10 a plate. For larger orders of seven or more, delivery is an option!
Giving Back and Moving Forward
The funds raised from this benefit will not only assist in paying off Scotty’s mounting hospital bills but will also contribute towards obtaining a new wheelchair. Ronald Jones emphasized that any money raised is guaranteed to be put to good use, saying, “We waste nothing.” Beverly McKee added that events like this foster a sense of connection, noting, “Just knowing a community is behind you is very uplifting.”
As Florence comes together for Scotty Jones, the outpouring of support serves as a reminder of the strength found in community bonds. With every plate sold and every donation made, the residents of Florence showcase their generosity and compassion, proving that in times of need, they stand united.
