Medal of Courage: Jonathan Koch

Jonathan Koch, a former wrestler with a 21-7 varsity record at State College Area High School in State College, Pennsylvania, has an incredible story of resilience.

Jonathan worked as a television producer and co-founded Asylum Entertainment which produced the 2011 miniseries The Kennedys. Asylum was purchased by Legendary Entertainment in 2014. In 2015, his life took an unexpected turn when he fell seriously ill during a producer’s conference in Washington, D.C. To save his life, doctors had to place him into a coma. After several harrowing weeks, he miraculously woke up with his mind and spirit intact. However, he learned that he had survived septic shock, which had severely compromised his body. As a result, he had lost all or part of all four limbs, including his right leg and left hand.

Even in the face of such devastating circumstances, Jonathan refused to succumb to despair. Rather than accepting a grim prognosis, he made a vow to not only survive but to thrive for the sake of his teenaged daughter and new wife, Jennifer. Despite being told that his chances of survival were slim, Jonathan defied the odds. His doctors were astounded by his resilience and determination to live. One doctor, in particular, admitted that Jonathan had changed her perspective on being a doctor and what could be achieved when patients were willing to fight back. When asked how he survived against unimaginable odds by a doctor at George Washington University Hospital, he whispered the powerful truth, “I’m a wrestler.”

Over the next 18 months, Jonathan underwent numerous painful surgeries, prosthetic fittings, and endured intensive rehabilitation. Despite the challenges he faced, he consistently surpassed his doctors' expectations. Recognizing his mental and physical strength, a pioneering surgeon believed Jonathan was an ideal candidate for a revolutionary human hand transplant. In a groundbreaking procedure, he made medical history by successfully receiving a new hand. While it typically takes several years to learn how to use a transplanted hand, his determination and tenacity allowed him to succeed in its use within just four months. Astonishingly, he was back on the tennis court soon thereafter, showcasing his resilience and unwavering spirit.

Today, Jonathan shares his remarkable journey with people worldwide. Through coaching, leadership, and motivational speaking engagements, he inspires others to stand up and fight against adversity. His story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the extraordinary possibilities that can emerge from even the darkest of situations.

The National Wrestling Hall of Fame is honored to present the 2024 Medal of Courage to the astoundingly inspirational Jonathan Koch.