A student-athlete at Corrigan-Camden ISD is in critical condition after a medical emergency during Friday’s football game.
Danny Rivera was supporting his team from the sidelines, unable to play with a previous and unrelated injury, during the Bulldogs’ game versus Joaquin. He was promptly taken to Lufkin, then flown to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.
A message from Corrigan-Camden Superintendent Brian Aiken and Athletic Director Brett Ratliff gives further details, though the district is prevented from sharing health-related information.
“We appreciate our first responders, staff, students, and community members for their prompt assistance last night. If you would like to help the family by donating, please visit the Bulldog Athletic Facebook page. There, you will find a link to make a donation.
“Please keep this young man and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
The school held a wrestling event Saturday that was scheduled to fund Project Graduation. The decision was made to instead forward all proceeds directly to the Rivera family. Buckets will be passed through town for donations, and a taco sale has occurred that raised $2,400.
Those who wish to help have been directed to Facebook on the Bulldog athletic page, where funds will reach the Rivera family.
On the gridiron, Rivera is an offensive and defensive lineman for the Bulldogs.
“He is a junior and hard-working, blue-collar kid,” Ratliff said. “He is an amazing kid with an amazing family. He is a very helpful person that has such a good heart. He is a very quiet and reserved guy, but he has a great sense of humor.”
The coach said in his spare time he works by mowing grass and shining boots.
“He is an awesome kid and always wants to work hard. He never complains about anything,” Ratliff said.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Rivera remains in stable, but critical condition.
