Ridgeland, South Carolina – Marissa Paykos, a well-known regenerative farmer and community leader in Jasper County, South Carolina, suffered a devastating injury on Saturday, September 21, 2024, while working on her farm, Whippoorwill Farms SC.
The injury occurred when Paykos, who is 17 weeks pregnant, took a severe fall in the farm’s fields, causing a compound fracture in her ankle, leaving her foot barely attached.
In a harrowing moment, Paykos used her clothing to apply a makeshift tourniquet while calling 911, enduring a 30-minute wait for emergency services.
She has since undergone three surgeries to repair her leg and prevent infection, with more medical procedures expected in the coming weeks.
Despite the trauma, Paykos’s unborn child is safe and continues to be monitored.
The accident has deeply impacted not only Paykos but her family, farm employees, and the wider community.
James Paykos, Marissa’s husband, has taken unpaid leave to care for her and their daughter, as well as to manage the farm during this difficult period.
Friends and community members have rallied around the Paykos family, with Elizabeth Schroeder sharing, "Please donate," and Mady Hastings contributing a top donation of $1,200.
Their support will help with mounting medical bills and farm expenses during her long recovery journey.