Dave Jackson has 'fighting spirit'
David Jackson, retired Marion grocer, proves that having a good attitude, no matter what happens, is the key to a happy life.
As a result of complications from diabetes, he has incurred innumerable health problems but remains positive in his outlook on life.
He suffered a stroke 10 years ago and also had two heart-bypass surgeries. Then his kidneys began to fail, and two years ago he was forced to begin kidney dialysis.
According to his wife, Vicki, he always is friendly and full of life when he goes for the four-hour treatment three times a week at the Davita Dialysis Center in Newton.
"The other patients are pretty sad," Vicki said, "but David cheers them up. He brightens up the whole place."
The nursing staff, administrator, dietitian, and social services director all wrote letters nominating David for the "Patient of the Year" award for the National Kidney Foundation of Kansas and Western Missouri.
The award is given to "those who exemplify the fighting spirit to live life to the fullest while continuing to manage and grow in their understanding of chronic kidney disease."
And that he does. He accepts his fate cheerfully and enjoys every day. He has delivered Friendship Meals for six years and continues to do so on his days off from dialysis.
He said he inquired about a kidney transplant but was told that he maybe would live only two years. So he opted to stay with the current treatment. He is disciplined in following the strict diet his situation requires.
"He's learning what he can and can't eat," Vicki said. "And he can drink only one quart of water per day."
His favorite daily activity is to go to Carlsons' IGA to pick up an item or two and to visit with Greg and Mitch, his former employees.
Dave was in the grocery business all of his working life. In 1968, while running a grocery store in Eureka, he entered into partnership with Dean Pippin to establish Dean's IGA in Marion. When Dean quite the business in 1971, the Jacksons moved to Marion and took over management, changing the name to Dave's IGA.
Dave operated the store until Jan. 1, 1992, when he sold it to Greg and Mitch Carlson.
The Jacksons will travel to Kansas City, Mo. April 7 for the award ceremony which will be held at the Marriott-Country Club Plaza
