A tragic workplace accident at Shred Right in Bloomington, Minnesota earlier this month resulted in Hugo man Jeff McLean having his lower legs amputated after they were caught in a paper shredder; the incident has sparked an investigation by the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), as McLean recovers from the ordeal. According to a KSTP report, McLean's wife Jamie has been by his side at Hennepin County Medical Center, where the severe nature of his injuries led to the life-altering amputations.

Recalling the harrowing experience Jamie said, "They told me enough to tell me that his legs were gone," and detailing the workplace accident she mentioned her husband had been working on the shredder when he fell in, adding, "That is where he was hanging on in the machine for 52 seconds before somebody heard him," the actions of his co-workers being critical in saving his life, all unfolding on April 2. OSHA's investigations are still ongoing, but in the last five years, they have scrutinized 52 cases involving serious amputations as they have reported.

Ron Mason, the CEO of Shred Right, expressed the collective shock of McLean's colleagues, calling him a "really nice guy" and "well-loved by everyone at the company"; McLean, a 54-year-old man, has not let the gravity of the situation dampen his spirit, maintaining his humor throughout the recovery process. Jamie recalled his quips to KSTP, noting that despite his harrowing ordeal, he joked about being "'short,' and he said, 'Well, now I’m as tall as you,' and 'Oh, now I don’t have to cut my toenails anymore.'"

While McLean works through physical and occupational therapy daily, his journey is far from over, although he is expected to be discharged from the hospital, next week navigating daily life presents new challenges, the family home requires modifications to accommodate his needs, possibly moving to an accessible house, Jamie indicated their life ahead invites a slew of questions. In light of the unexpected costs and lifestyle changes, a MPR News report has shared that a GoFundMe page for McLean aims to raise $30,000, with over $21,000 already gathered at the time of the report, any support is appreciated by the McLean family during this challenging time.