A college football star who was left paralyzed from the neck down after a devastating injury earlier this month has shown “remarkable strength and determination” on his road to recovery, his brother said. People.
Jason Pugal, 20, suffered a “serious neck injury, a fractured neck, and compression of his C6 vertebrae” during a workout at Chadron State College in Nebraska earlier this month, according to a GoFundMe shared by Kyle Pugal to raise money to bring his brother back to California for recovery.
The fundraiser (still open) has been a success so far. On August 26, Jason was flown from Nebraska to Sharp Allison deRose Rehabilitation Center in San Diego. “Jason is so happy to be home and is smiling from ear to ear. He’s settling in and will be ready to go tomorrow!” Kyle said.
Jason, who is married to his high school sweetheart, had spinal surgery to “immobilize his neck and protect his spinal cord,” his father, Mark, said. KAB He said his son can now feel part of his left hand and move it slightly.
Chadron State College supported the Pugal family and all students affected by the tragedy in a statement. “The entire Chadron State College community, including the Athletic Department, supports Jason and his family, and our thoughts and prayers continue to be with him and his family during this challenging time,” a spokesperson said. People“Jason's scholarship will continue to be honored and we wish him the best as he begins his rehabilitation.”