The Old Bridge community is providing assistance to high school wrestler Adrianna Maria, who suffered a severe neck injury during a Jan. 31 match against Perth Amboy that left her partially paralyzed, according to a public Facebook post by head coach John Post on Monday.
“Adriana underwent neck surgery following the incident,” Post wrote on February 2. “Medical evaluation revealed that her spinal cord at the C4, C5 and C6 levels had displaced and compressed nerves, resulting in loss of mobility.
advertise
“Following surgery, Adriana has regained some movement in her arm; however, she currently has no movement in her legs. Coach Post and the rest of the coaching staff have been with Adriana and her family throughout the weekend and have provided incredible support during this difficult time.”
He continued, “Adrienne is scheduled to undergo a second surgery today (February 2) to further stabilize her neck and hopefully provide additional relief. Doctors remain hopeful that with time and continued treatment, the inflammation will decrease and Adrianna may regain additional mobility in her arms and legs.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Adrianna and her family,” Post added.
The wrestling community rallied around the teenager, leaving multiple messages of support on Facebook.
advertise
A GoFundMe page created Monday to help pay for her emergency surgery, recovery and housing raised nearly $30,000 in about six hours against a $50,000 goal, with more than 460 people donating.
The GoFundMe page begins, “Adriana is a vibrant, athletic, and energetic 16-year-old girl who puts her heart and soul into everything she does, especially wrestling, a sport she truly loves. During a recent wrestling match, Adriana suffered a tragic neck injury that required emergency neck surgery. She now faces a long and uncertain road to recovery, and we are working hard to pray for a miracle and a full recovery.”
The statement continued: “Adriana was not only physically strong, but also smart, loving and deeply caring – a bright light to everyone who knew her. She was raised by her devoted mother, a hard-working single mom who always went out of her way to support Adriana’s dreams, passions and goals. Their bond was strong and this sudden tragedy placed an enormous emotional and financial burden on both of them.”
“During this extremely difficult time, any donation, no matter the amount, will help ease the stress of medical bills, recovery costs, and daily needs. Your support means so much and will help my best friend and her daughter focus on recovery and hope.”
advertise
Old Bridge is also hosting fundraisers during its home games against Raritan on Tuesday, February 3 and South Plainfield on Wednesday, February 4. Both games start at 6 p.m.
A post on Facebook provided more details.
“Around 12:00 noon, Adriana Maria played her last game of the day,” he wrote. “During the game, she was pushed and pinned by an opponent from Perth Amboy. After the game, Adriana did not stand up. Our athletic trainers responded immediately to assess her condition. Adriana reported severe pain in her neck and stated that she was unable to move her arms or legs. We immediately contacted emergency medical services.
“While waiting for EMS to arrive, our athletic trainer Jane Maline provided excellent care and support. Upon arrival, EMS carefully secured Adriana to a backboard and transported her by ambulance to the hospital.”
advertise
“Any amount is a blessing and will aid in her long-term recovery,” he wrote.
The GoFundMe page ends: “Thank you for your kindness, prayers and generosity.”
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Old Bridge, N.J., wrestler suffers neck injury, community shows support
