The Cedar Valley community is coming together in support of Andrew Howe, co-owner of the popular Doughy Joey’s Peetza Joynt in Waterloo, after a devastating accident left him fighting for his life.
Howe, 38, suffered a serious fall early Monday morning while staying at an Airbnb in Ankeny. According to family members, he was discovered at the bottom of a staircase by a friend, who immediately alerted his longtime partner, Alison Blake, and called emergency services.
He was rushed to the hospital, where surgeons performed emergency brain surgery, removing a portion of his skull to alleviate dangerous swelling. Howe remains in the intensive care unit in a medically induced coma as doctors monitor his condition with a series of CT scans and MRIs.
“Everything is still up in the air,” said Megan Tjernagel, Blake’s sister. “We’re just hoping and waiting. Alison hasn’t left his side.”
Howe and Blake are not only partners in life, but also in business — co-owners of Doughy Joey’s, a staple in the Waterloo dining scene. The couple share a 3-year-old son, Lane.
News of the accident spread quickly across the Cedar Valley, where Howe is widely known for his friendly demeanor, community spirit, and contributions to the local restaurant scene. In the days following the fall, messages of support and offers of help have poured in from friends, patrons, and fellow business owners.
As Howe remains in critical condition, the Waterloo community continues to rally around his family with hope, prayers, and unwavering support.