Former Wildcat Injured in Georgia

2013 Central High School graduate Devon Gales suffered a severe spinal injury last Saturday night in Athens, Georgia at the Southern University vs University of Georgia football game.  Devon, who played wide receiver for 4 years at Central, was running to block on a kickoff return when his head hit a Georgia player's shoulder.  "Devon is a hard hitter," said CHS Coach Sid Edwards.  "But this was not a hard hit.  It just went wrong." 
    Devon was rushed to Athens Regional Medical Center where he underwent surgery on Sunday.  As of Tuesday, it was reported he had some movement in his arms and some sensation in his feet.  "I have every confidence in Devon," shared Coach Sid, "and here's why.  Not many know that when Devon was born he was born with some of his organs outside of his body.  It took 9 months in the hospital before he was able to come home.  He is one of Women's Hospitals 'Miracle Babies'.  He's been a fighter from Day One."
    The University of Georgia community has rallied around Devon.  "They have been stellar," says Coach Sid, "They flew Devon's family in from Baton Rouge that day.  The entire coaching staff, including head coach Mark Richt, have all been to visit him in the hospital."  In a coincidence that Coach Sid credits God with, David Bowen, a former CHS player, is on the University of Georgia's staff.  David, like Devon, is a Power Cat, meaning both of them achieved their goals in the weight room during their tenure at CHS.  David has been at Devon's side as well. 
    Devon was scheduled to be transferred back to a facility in Baton Rouge in 10 days, but through the auspices of an individual from Georgia, was instead admitted Wednesday to the internationally recognized Shepherd Center in Atlanta.  Meanwhile, Southern University has set up the Devon Gales Fund to help his family with his medical expenses.  Contributions can be sent to the Southern University System Foundation c/o Devon Gales Fund, P.O. Box 9562, Baton Rouge, LA 70813 or through the website www.netcommunity.sus.edu.
    Coach Sid has been following Devon's progress closely.  "I love him dearly," he shared, "He is Rare Air.  He is not only one of the greatest players I've ever coached, but also one of the greatest human beings I've ever coached.  If anyone can overcome this, Devon is that guy."  Central is known for caring for its own.  Please consider donating to Devon's fund and joining the community as we lift Devon and his family in our prayers.