Jennifer Buck, a senior at Jackson Heights High School, has been awarded the KBCA Student-Athlete COURAGE AWARD following a harrowing car accident that tested her strength in ways few can imagine.
The Crash That Changed Everything
On the morning of December 4th, Jennifer was on her way to basketball practice when her truck hit black ice on a hill, causing it to roll multiple times. She was ejected through the sunroof, suffering a broken clavicle, a fractured skull, and multiple facial fractures. Rushed to the hospital, she spent a week in the ICU and nearly two weeks in recovery—with no memory of the accident.
The Fight to Recover
Doctors delivered crushing news: Jennifer might never play sports again. But the determined senior refused to give up. Through months of physical therapy, exhausting medical appointments, and the emotional struggle of watching her basketball team and FFA chapter compete without her, Jennifer focused on small victories—like returning to school for just two hours a day or sharing heartfelt hugs with her teachers.
A Lesson in Perseverance
Now back in school part-time, Jennifer reflects on her journey with gratitude. "I’ve been told I’m lucky to be alive, and I don’t take that lightly," she said. "Even on the hardest days, I know there’s a purpose in all of this."
The KBCA Courage Award recognizes Jennifer’s unwavering spirit, proving that true strength isn’t about never falling—it’s about rising every time you do.