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Community and family rallying after Bloomington football player paralyzed during game
More than $70,000 has been raised as of Tuesday morning to support a Bloomington high school football player who was reportedly left paralyzed from the shoulder down after taking a bad hit during a game last Friday.
BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (FOX 9) - A Bloomington high school football player is facing the challenge of his life after being paralyzed during the season opening game Friday.
15-year-old Ethan Glynn was left without feeling below his shoulders following a tackle in the first quarter of the game. The family says Ethan suffered a severe neck and spinal cord injury, and now has a long recovery ahead.
Bloomington-Jefferson head football coach Tim Carlson said Glynn was conscious and aware as responding paramedics tended to him on the field. He has since undergone multiple surgeries and remains intubated but alert.
"There’s no playbook for this," said Carlson. "If there’s one kid who can do it, it’s going to be Ethan. He’s strong-willed. He’s determined."
Glynn is also active in hockey and baseball, referred to as a stand-out athlete in the Bloomington community. Those who know him describe a fierce competitor with a positive disposition.
"He’s probably looking at this thing like it’s a sprained ankle and he’ll be back out there tomorrow," said family friend John Frein. "He’s going to battle it."
Frein said its unclear what the long term prognosis is, but Glynn’s parents are remaining optimistic.
"Its about one day at a time. That’s the approach," said Frein. "Take today and get to the next milestone whatever that may be."
Since being created over the weekend, the GoFundMe has raised more than $70,000, as the family faces unknown expenses in the months and years ahead.
A CaringBridge page has also been set up to track Ethan's recovery. You can click here for more information