An outpouring of support sent from around the world for Tulane football player, Devon Walker.
Walker is in Saint Francis Hospital after a three hour operation on Sunday to stabilize his spine after a head-on collision during a game Saturday at TU.
No one ever imagined that hit on the final play of the first half would land Walker in intensive care.
"It’s just one of those things that like a dark cloud, It kind of stays over and its tough." said TU quarterback Cody Green
“I heard a couple of doctors mumbling about how they were going to have to shock him," said Cory Dorris.
Doctors said Walker sustained a cervical spine fracture brought on by a helmet to helmet collision.
"He really represents the best in what we are," said Tulane Athletic Director, Rick Dickson.
Dickson has talked to Walker and his family since the injury and said Walker has been responsive.
Walker’s family released a statement, in part saying:
"We have been overwhelmed by the amount of concern, and well wishes we have received from all over the world. We thank everyone for their love and support shown to Devon and our family."
That love continues to show up in the mail and online.
TU football player and fellow Louisiana native Dexter McCoil posted on Facebook: "I want to give my prayers up for Devon. Never want to see that happen. All the love to him and his family."
On Monday, The University of Tulsa announced a fund to benefit the family of Walker. Alumni, friends and fans who wish to do so may make a financial contribution by sending a check made payable to The University of Tulsa Golden Hurricane Club with “Devon Walker Fund” noted in the memo line."
These funds will be used to benefit Devon’s family and help alleviate their expenses during their stay in Tulsa.
Checks may dropped off at the TU Athletic Director’s Office in Mabee Gym at the corner of East 8th Street and South Florence Avenue or mailed to:
The University of Tulsa
Attn: Golden Hurricane Club
800 S. Tucker Drive
Tulsa, OK 74104.
Please note that donations to support Devon Walker are not allowable tax-deductible contributions.
Anyone wishing to make an in-kind contribution may drop off gift cards (for restaurants, shops, etc.) at the TU Athletic Director’s Office as well.
Outside Tulsa, Tulane University has set up a website in support of Devon and his family. Financial assistance and get-well messages may be submitted at
http://tulane.edu/devonwalker/.Donations also can be made to The College Football Assistance Fund in support of Devon by visiting
www.CFAFund.org. CFAF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to support those who have sustained serious injuries through college football.
