Jason Jenkins, the senior vice president of communications and community affairs for the Miami Dolphins, passed away on Saturday, August 28, 2022, at the age of 47. His death shocked and saddened the Dolphins organization and the South Florida community, where he was a respected and beloved figure. But what was the cause of his death? How did a seemingly healthy and active man die so suddenly and unexpectedly?
The Medical Explanation
According to the medical examiner, Jenkins died due to natural causes stemming from a blood clot that traveled from his leg to his heart. This condition is known as pulmonary embolism, and it occurs when a blood clot breaks loose from a vein in the lower body and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, where it blocks one or more arteries. This can prevent blood from reaching the lungs, which can cause respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, or death
Pulmonary embolism can be caused by various factors, such as prolonged immobility, surgery, injury, cancer, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, or genetic disorders. Jenkins had a history of thrombosis, which is a tendency to form blood clots. This may have increased his risk of developing pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism can be treated with anticoagulants (blood thinners), thrombolytics (clot busters), or surgery. However, it can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can vary and mimic other conditions. Some of the common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, rapid heartbeat, or fainting. Jenkins may have not experienced any warning signs or sought medical attention before his death.
The Personal Impact
Jenkins’ death was a tragic loss for his family, friends, colleagues, and community. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth and their three children Liya, Aiden, and Sloane. He was described as a kind and incredible family man by Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, who also called him an icon in the Miami community and his friend.
Jenkins joined the Dolphins in 2009 and became the senior vice president of communications and community affairs in 2015. He was responsible for overseeing the media relations, community outreach, digital media, broadcasting, and entertainment teams for the Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. He also managed media outreach for Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix.
Jenkins was deeply involved in various charitable and social causes in South Florida. He was a board member of several organizations, such as the Anti-Defamation League of Florida, Breakthrough Miami, Dolphins Challenge Cancer, Pro Sports Assembly, Urban League of Broward County, Women of Tomorrow, and the YMCA of Miami. He also received a Corporate Pillar Award by Miami-Dade County’s Black Affairs Advisory Council for his contributions to the African-American community.
Jenkins was widely respected and admired by his peers in the sports industry. He was praised for his professionalism, integrity, generosity, and leadership by many prominent figures, such as NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, NFL Network reporter Steve Wyche, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, Dolphins players Xavien Howard and Tua Tagovailoa, former Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino, and former Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano Jr…
The Legacy He Left Behind
Jason Jenkins was more than just a Dolphins executive. He was a visionary who used his platform to make a positive impact on the world around him. He was a mentor who inspired and empowered others to achieve their goals. He was a friend who cared and supported those who needed him. He was a husband and father who loved his family unconditionally.
Jenkins’ legacy will live on through his work, his passion, and his spirit. He will be remembered as a role model for excellence, kindness, and service. He will be missed by many who knew him and admired him. He will be honored by those who will continue his mission of making a difference in society.
Rest in peace, Jason Jenkins. Thank you for everything you did. You will never be forgotten.
