Karns City QB: A Butler County community is rallying behind the family of a Karns City High School quarterback and senior who was flown from a football game on Friday and remains hospitalized.
They did so during a vigil on Sunday night, returning to the place of the tragedy, where hundreds of people expressed their support.
Family, friends, and even strangers from Karns City and beyond came out in support of Mason Martin, 17, who is fighting for his life at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh.
Martin’s parents stated earlier in the day on Facebook, “The truth is we need a miracle.” Doctors said that their kid is still in critical condition and that doctors must wait for the swelling to subside before assessing the damage to his brain.
Martin’s family informed KDKA that he had a serious brain bleed as well as a collapsed lung during Friday night’s football game versus Redbank Valley. He was claimed to have been engaged in a hit or tackle but proceeded to play defense without incident.
When Martin returned to the field for the return kick-off, they noticed him tripping and falling. As first responders flew Martin to the hospital, the game was called off.
Pastors from local churches, school district officials, and Martin’s teammates all spoke from a platform that displayed Martin’s football jersey.
His colleagues recited biblical texts, including his close buddy Tate Beighley, who also encouraged the audience.
“Mason is a fighter, and I promise you, he will win this battle,” Beighley said.
They attempted to elevate one another and stand strong for the Martin family via prayer, singing, and words of positivity.
Trinity Reformed Church in Brady’s Bend is led by Pastor Pete Sapp.
“We need a miracle,” Sapp stated, referring to Martin’s parents’ social media post.
He reminisced on the horrific night that many in attendance saw.
“The trauma witnessed by so many on Friday night was a bomb that went off right in the middle of the Martins’ lives,” Sapp said.
The tragedy adds to the family’s already difficult situation, since Martin’s mother is suffering stage four breast cancer.
“The Martins have had more than their fair share of brokenness,” Sapp said.
Despite this, close friends say the Martins never exhibit weakness and are always there and giving back to the community.
Karns City Senior High Principal Mike Stimac, who has known the Martins for almost his entire life, expressed his respect for the family while fighting back emotions.
“I remember telling their dad that I hope my kids grow up to be just as good as their kids,” Stimac said.
Martin’s parents are described as pillars in Karns City by Superintendent Eric Ritzert, and Martin is the epitome of a team player and leader.
“For somebody his age to have that type of motivation and understanding of what he wants to do is rather impressive,” Ritzhert said.
Now, the community is banding together to help the Martins, hoping Mason can recover.
“I know that if we can all emulate their hope and faith, anything is possible,” stated Stimac.
“Mason needs our prayers. “Let us not fail him,” Ritzhert replied.
During the vigil, counselors were on hand in case someone wanted to chat. They’ll also be in school on Tuesday when students and faculty return after the holiday.
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