Texas Teen Paralyzed After Diving Into Pool

FRISCO, TX — A North Texas thirteen-year-old was paralyzed after diving into a pool to escape a wasp. 

This happened on June 20, 2024, when the teen known as SJ visited a friend's community pool.

SJ and a friend dove headfirst into the shallow end while trying to avoid a wasp. SJ recalls floating face down in the pool, unable to move and thinking he might drown as he swallowed water. His friends initially thought he was playing, but one realized something was wrong and pulled him from the water.

Rushed to the hospital, the family received devastating news: SJ's spinal cord had been so severely damaged that he would lose the use of his legs and arms. Though surgeons repaired his fractured bones, they informed the family that the spinal cord damage was irreparable.

SJ is currently in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). He continues to make slow but steady progress on his journey to recovery.

According to information, he recently passed a swallow study, allowing him to begin eating regular food and drinking normally.

Despite the prognosis, his family remains hopeful and relies on their faith, believing in the possibility of a miracle for SJ. 

"We refuse to believe that this is Sj's story. He’s only 13," a family member stated. "He has way too much more life to actually live and fully enjoy. We are trusting and believing that God will perform a miracle and heal my brother."

The community has rallied around SJ and his family, raising $47,889 of a $100,000 goal through a GoFundMe campaign to support his recovery and medical expenses. 

To donate, click here.