Sarah Jakes Roberts, the daughter of prominent Bishop T.D. Jakes, has shared a harrowing experience following a serious trampoline accident that left her “almost paralyzed.” The incident occurred when Roberts was playing with her daughter, Ella, leading to considerable injury and prompting a significant hospital visit. The 37-year-old spiritual leader and author took to Instagram to recount the frightening event, where she was photographed wearing a neck brace while in a hospital bed.
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In her post, Roberts described the accident, stating, “Last night was scary. I was almost paralyzed, but God didn’t see fit to let that be my story.” This reflection underscores both her relief and faith in the wake of a life-altering mishap. According to Roberts, the injury unfolded as she landed awkwardly on her neck while playing a game with Ella on the trampoline.
The gravity of the injury became apparent when Roberts reported hearing multiple pops in her neck. In a swift response, she contacted her father, who promptly called for emergency assistance. After being treated at two different hospitals and undergoing several medical scans, it was revealed that she had sustained a fractured neck, herniated discs, and had compromised areas of her spine which, if left untreated, could have resulted in paralysis.
Roberts noted the precarious nature of her condition, commenting, “One disc up or one disc lower, and this would’ve been a different testimony.” She will need to wear the neck brace for a period of four to six weeks to ensure her neck remains stable and to prevent further damage. In her Instagram update, she spoke about the importance of rest and recovery, highlighting that this phase would allow her body the necessary time to heal.
Acknowledging the incident’s impact on her life, Roberts expressed gratitude for the support she has received from family and friends during this challenging time. She stated, “I’m soaking in the presence and kindness of God,” as she embraces the healing journey ahead. For those who encounter her in public, she reassured them, “If you see me and I’m out and about, but moving slowly, just know that I’m still the birthday girl even with a neck brace.”
Roberts’ injury comes in a turbulent period, following her father’s near-fatal heart attack in November 2024 while he was preaching at The Potter’s House, the non-denominational megachurch he founded in Dallas. His health scare was described by Jakes himself, who said he was informed by doctors that he was “five minutes” from death. This harrowing experience served as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability, which Jakes reflected on in a conversation with PEOPLE earlier this year.
In the aftermath of his health crisis, Bishop T.D. Jakes transferred leadership responsibilities to his daughter, appointing her as co-senior pastor of The Potter’s House alongside her husband, Touré Roberts. He explained his decision, saying, “After my health incident, I didn’t want the church left struggling, trying to figure out where do we go from here.” Jakes expressed a desire to ensure a smooth transition, underscoring the need for a stable leadership structure in the church.
As Sarah Jakes Roberts takes on this significant role, she has spoken candidly about the challenges and rewards of leadership. Although the transition has been “terrifying,” she noted, “It’s been exciting to work through all the different emotions,” hinting at a hopeful and dynamic future for the church and its community.
The convergence of personal and professional challenges in Roberts’ life accentuates a period of significant change for her family. As she navigates her recovery from the trampoline accident, she remains committed to her responsibilities at The Potter’s House, exemplifying resilience in the face of adversity. Her experience serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in faith, family support, and the importance of cherishing each moment.