Jake Suttling continues his recovery from serious injuries in Vernon Jubilee Hospital with his step-father Kevin Acton on hand. (submitted photo/Facebook/Gen Acton)

By Pete McIntyre

Receiving support

Crash victim moved to VJH to recover from injuries

May 26, 2023 | 5:00 AM

A North Okanagan accident victim has been transferred to Vernon Jubilee Hospital to continue his recovery, and is said to be responding well.

Jake Suttling suffered serious injuries on May 14 when he was hit by a pickup truck while on his motorbike on Highway 6 in Lavington.

Suttling was on his was to visit his mother, Gen Acton, in Lumby for Mother’s Day.

Acton, the chair of the Vernon board of education, has been posting updates on social media, and initiated a GoFundMe to help her son who sustained extensive injuries and was airlifted to Kelowna General Hospital where surgeons worked to save his legs.

Acton reported Suttling underwent 11 hours of surgeries on his lower body; pelvis, hips, knees, femur, bilateral lower legs, while both his wrists were fractured. He also required extensive dental repairs.

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“This is going to be a long and onerous journey to recovery, and Jake’s life will never be the same. He will need to relocate from his home following his hospital stay to a wheelchair accessible home that will allow for the special equipment required for his rehabilitation, Acton, the wife of Lumby mayor and Regional District of North Okanagan chair Kevin Acton, wrote.

Jake Suttling in Kelowna General Hospital. (submitted photo/GoFundMe)

“Many people have been reaching out asking how they can help. With ICBC‘S change in policy there is no longer financial supports for pain and suffering. This change will impact Jake’s situation significantly,” said Acton.

Acton is suggesting ways to help include donating to the GoFundMe, contributing to an account at the Chasers and Interior Freight bottle depots, and to watch for a fundraiser in September.

Acton is also strongly encouraging drivers to be aware of motorbikes and to share the road.

Damage to truck that hit Jake Suttling and his motorcycle in Lavington. (submitted photo/Facebook/Gen Acton)

Acton issued an update on her son Wednesday, May 24, saying Jake had been transferred from KGH to Vernon Jubilee Hospital to continue his recovery.

“It’s truly amazing how support and environment makes such a huge difference in the recovery process,” Acton said.

As of 5 p.m. on May 25, the GoFundMe had raised over $10,400 to help Suttling who has worked as a tile setter.

To find out more about the GoFundMe, click here.