Dear Kingfish Families,
 
I just want to thank you for your patience and understanding while Coach Craft tries to recover from his back/leg injury.  Several of you have asked me how is doing and it dawned on me that perhaps some of you do not know what he’s been going through.
 
Last Friday, Jay took Sam to NH so that Sam could ski with his Uncle.  Jay’s sciatica was bothering him so he hadn’t planned on skiing.  Once he arrived (after the driving part), he was in excruciating pain.  He didn’t think he could drive home Saturday.  He made it home and went to the ER.  After 3 more trips to the hospital last week, he still was unable to do anything except lay flat on his back.  Any movement was very painful.  I wasn’t much help, as I had to work and take care of the kids all week.
 
He received a cortisone shot on Wednesday and was told that “hopefully” it will have an effect in 3-5 days.  It has had minimal effect.  In all the years I have known Jay, he has never been able to sit still and do nothing, yet that is the only thing he can do without experiencing pain.  He is going nuts and worries about being unavailable to his students, his swimmers and their families.
 
Last night, he forced himself to attend the swim meet and then couldn’t drive home.  This morning, he alternated between watching Sam and others swim and lying down in my car.   He tried to stay for his own swimmers for the afternoon session and just couldn’t do it.
 
I am telling you all this because Jay is very private and doesn’t like making a big deal out of things, but you should know that he is trying his very best to resume his usual activities.  Please bear with us while he rests.
 
Thank you all, especially the exceptional coaching staff who have stepped up without hesitation to fill in for him!  We are very lucky to have you.
 
Cross your fingers that a few more days is all Jay will need and thanks so much for your support.
 
Jodi Craft