The September afternoon two years ago was warm and sunny when I got a phone call that almost stopped my heart. It was my husband on the phone and he started the conversation with “The coach just called and they are putting Judson in the back of the ambulance now.” Not the thing a mother ever wants to ever hear. Fortunately, my worst imaginings of brain injuries, paralysis, etc. were just that …imaginings.

He had broken both bones in his leg just above his ankle and had dislocated his ankle at the same time. When we first saw him at the hospital, the air cast that held his leg had come loose and his foot was pointing backwards and the bones of his lower leg could be seen trying to break through the skin. .

After several hours in the Emergency Room, Judson had on a cast on that reached from just below his hip to the tips of his toes. It made for a very interesting six and a half weeks until the cast came off as we dealt with bathing and other personal hygiene issues with a 15 year old. Then came the fun of rehabilitation three times a week for six weeks. Judson had lost most of the muscle in his leg and had to rebuild what he had worked so hard to build. .

Through all the time he was in a cast, Judson only missed the first two days after breaking his leg from practice. He was there at every practice and game. He even wore, at times, a trash bag around his leg to protect the cast when it was raining during game time so that he could be on the sidelines with the team. .

Judson is a very well-rounded young man. He not only plays football, but also tennis. He loves music and drama and has participated in numerous honor choruses including being selected to All-State Chorus his freshman year. Judson has had several lead and major roles in plays at his school. He is in the Men’s Quartet and competes in Literary Meets. .

Academically, Judson is in the top 10% of his class. He has taken many honors and Advanced Placement classes. Judson was recently named an AP Scholar for his performance on the AP tests. .

Judson has strong beliefs and lives out what he says he believes. He is currently serving as a peer mentor for middle school students through the STARS program. STARS stands for Students Teaching Abstinence, Responsibility, and Self-Respect. Judson is involved in the Fine Arts Club and National Honor Society in his school. .

His father and I are very proud of Judson’s accomplishments on the athletic fields, tennis courts, the classroom and the stage. However, we are most proud of the character that he displays. Judson has the courage to be who he is without feeling like he has to fit in with the crowd. .

It took a lot of courage and commitment, especially for a 15 year old, to go back onto the football field after having such a traumatic injury and enduring the long and painful rehab process. Judson is a very determined young man who gives everything he does 110%. .

As his parents, we appreciate the opportunity to share Judson’s story. .
Robbie and Heather Whitfield .

• AP Scholars Announced
• PHS Senior nominated for Rudy Award