Dallas pastor suffers severe injury – trampoline accident leaves her facing weeks of recovery
Dallas pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts is recovering after a harrowing trampoline accident left her with a fractured neck and spinal injuries – a near-paralyzing ordeal she described as a desperate struggle for stability.
A sudden, painful stop
Roberts, daughter of renowned Potter’s House founder T.D. Jakes, revealed the incident unfolded on Sunday while playing with her daughter. “Instantly, I heard several pops in my neck,” she recounted in a social media post, detailing a jarring landing that triggered immediate, debilitating pain. Her daughter quickly alerted her husband, who promptly contacted emergency services.
Subsequent hospital scans revealed the gravity of the situation: a fractured neck, herniated discs, and compromised spinal integrity. Roberts emphasized the precariousness of her condition, stating, “One disc up or one disc lower, and this would’ve been a different testimony.” The potential for a far more devastating outcome underscores the unexpected nature of the event.
A viral tiktok moment
Despite the serious nature of her injuries, Roberts injected a dose of dark humor into her recovery. Sharing a photo of herself in a neck brace and sunglasses – a nod to a trending TikTok phrase – she quipped, “Just know that I’m still the birthday.” The image quickly gained traction online, offering a surprisingly lighthearted counterpoint to her challenging circumstances.
Long road to recovery
Doctors anticipate a recovery period of at least four to six weeks. Roberts expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating she’s “soaking up the presence and kindness of God and in the love of friends and family.” Her husband, Toure Roberts, remains by her side, playing a crucial role in her care and navigating the logistical complexities of her recovery.
A foundation under pressure
The incident comes just months after the couple officially became co-senior pastors of Potter’s House in July 2025, a significant leadership transition within the influential Dallas church. This injury, while undoubtedly challenging, highlights the vulnerability inherent in leadership and the reliance on community support during times of difficulty.
The road ahead is long, but Roberts’ resilience and humor offer a powerful testament to her spirit.