Latest update as of Nov 13, 2025

  • Surgery Update

    Jake has been hospitalized since last Saturday due to a horrible infection in his foot. Jake was really sick the first few days. He had surgery earlier this week to remove the damaged tissue, but his incision is pretty large. He's having another surgery tonight, and should be able to come home in the next couple of days! He's feeling a lot better 😌 Mr. Serious in the photo 😂

    Surgery Update

About this fundraiser

If you’ve ever met Jake Cotten, aka Tractor Driver Jake, you know how much light and laughter he brings to everyone around him. Whether he’s out in the fields, giving wagon rides, or cracking jokes to make someone’s day a little brighter, Jake’s kindness and energy are infectious. His life has always revolved around farming and agriculture — hard work, community, and heart. But this year has brought challenges no one could have prepared for. Since February 2025, Jake has been unable to work after enduring multiple foot surgeries and several toe amputations due to diabetes. For someone who’s always been a busy body, working multiple jobs and staying active to provide for his 9-year-old son, this recovery has been incredibly difficult. Jake will have another foot surgery on November 18th. 

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Despite the pain and uncertainty, Jake’s determination and sense of humor haven’t faded — but the financial strain has become overwhelming. Between mounting medical bills, travel costs, and everyday living expenses, he could truly use a helping hand from the community he’s given so much joy to. Every donation, big or small, will help Jake focus on healing and being the amazing dad and friend we all know him to be. Let’s come together to support Jake and remind him that he’s not in this fight alone.

Organized by

Jessica Aeschliman

Winterset, IA, USA

Organizer