Community Rallies Around CT Youth Soccer Coach Who Suffered Stroke

HEBRON, CT — The community has come to the aid of John Jepson, a volunteer with a youth soccer organization who suffered a stroke Sept. 2 that left him with right-side paralysis and speech impairment.

The stroke was then followed by a brain bleed Sept. 6 which created further complications, according to a GoFundMe organized by Lisa Cascio. Cascio wrote that Jepson has been fortunate to have the care of the wonderful staff at Hartford Hospital.

After leaving the ICU, Jepson did three weeks of rehabilitation and was expected to come home Oct. 1.

"All of us know John Jepson as an amazing husband, father, brother, son and friend," Cascio wrote. "But what sets John apart is his remarkable character. John has never hesitated to give up his own time to help his neighbors, friends or community."

She added that the town's youth benefited from the years Jepson spent as a volunteer coach and president of the Hebron Soccer Association.

"His love for soccer continued after coaching his own children to then offering his knowledge of the game to CT Soccer Officials Association," she wrote. "John enjoys working with peers, sharing the same passion for the great game, while continuing to work with young players in the Hartford area.

"John's good deeds go far beyond the soccer field.

"Now it is our turn to show John this same support and compassion."

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Cascio wrote that Jepson will have a long recovery with an unknown outcome. The funds raised will include quality-of-life adaptive technology and durable medical equipment beyond what's covered by insurance. Donations will also cover the purchase of home modifications for safe accessibility and subsidize the cost of 24-hour-a-day care.

"John is a fighter," Cascio wrote. "He wants to work hard and reach his goals. Hopefully we can come together to make this possible for him."

As of Wednesday, more than $80,000 had been raised of a $50,000 target.

To learn more and to donate, go to GoFundMe.