Greenville Tree Trimmer Recovers From 40-Foot Fall

A Greenville man has recovered from a 40-foot fall from a tree in Spartanburg after spending three months in the hospital.

During the Hurricane Helene cleanup on October 10th, 2024, Jerry Powers, a 67-year-old arborist, was trimming a tree in Spartanburg when a limb knocked him off his branch.

Powers, as tough as they come, is back on his feet. I saw him Tuesday in the lobby of a clinic.  We see the same doctor. Even before his tragic fall, he had had a heart attack and other challenges common for his age.

However, it was nip and tuck for months following Powers’ tragic and painful fall. He broke 14 bones in various parts of his body, including hips on both sides, his hand, and collarbone.

Following his surgery, doctors inserted a tube through his trachea to maintain clear airways so he could breathe properly during his long and difficult recovery.

A popular and good-natured guy, Powers learned after he regained consciousness that more than 300 people had come to visit him at various times in the hospital.

Back on his feet, yes, but Powers is not kicking very high.  He says his crew will keep the business humming from here on in. He has relegated himself to office support.

In fact, he said he got four new orders in today. Powers’ trained and experienced crew is up to the task. Besides, they would do anything to keep the skipper safe so he can enjoy a long and happy life. People like this guy.

Go, Jerry!