Jeff was born and grew up in Colonial Heights, Virginia right outside of the capital of Richmond. His parents were both esteemed professors at Virginia State University. At the age of ten, he became gravely ill and eventually doctors diagnosed him with Lupus. His parents were told he would not live past the age of fifteen. To their credit, they, along with his older brother, Greg, made every moment count for young Jeffrey. He played baseball, the saxophone, spent many years playing tennis in high school, college, and even in an adult league. As one can tell, he far surpassed the doctor’s prognosis regarding life span.
Jeff met the love of his life, Kristina, on Thanksgiving Day in 2010. They have been married for thirteen years. In that time, Jeff has withstood many surgeries including two knee replacements, survived a Lupus attack on his heart, lost 100 pounds, and still works full-time at his job of 24 years. He loves playing golf and pickleball (when his energy and knees allow), and spending time with family. He is a loving and playful Uncle Jeff to many nieces and nephews.
His resilient spirit persists as he is navigating the devastating effects of Stage 5 chronic kidney disease and heart failure. His kidney function is currently at % (a normal GFR for men at his age is around 93) which unfortunately means failure. Jeff manages his symptoms by not only staying positive but with a low-sodium and low potassium diet. He does not drink and has never smoked. He is the ultimate example of someone who truly helps themselves.
