BREMEN, Ga. (WANF/Gray News) – A Georgia high school football player surprised his teammates and coaches with a visit on senior night weeks after suffering a severe injury.
Bremen High School quarterback Carson Kimball joined his team for their Friday night game.
“As soon as I saw the Bremen exit sign, I teared up,” he said. “It was emotional going back through the place I’ve driven through so many times.”
About eight weeks ago, Kimball was tackled during a home game against Bowdon High. The hit left the quarterback without any feeling below his waist.
He was carted off the field and transported to Grady Memorial Hospital.
The high school senior underwent spinal surgery and spent nearly two weeks recovering in the hospital.
Paralyzed from the chest down, the 18-year-old has been living and rehabbing at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
Kimball has been working hard to build back mobility in his arms and shoulders.
“It’s definitely been a battle,” he said. “I wouldn’t have imagined 56 days ago that I would be here at this point.”
Friday marked the first time that Kimball has been back in Bremen since his August injury.
Bremen High School head football coach Davis Russell had no clue his captain was making a triumphant return Friday night.
“Our team leader is back, Carson is the heart and soul of this whole town,” he said. “To have him back is unbelievable.”
Despite a long road to recovery, Kimball hopes his presence inspired others to never give up.
“I’m going to try to the best of my ability to help others realize that there’s a lot going on in life, but there’s a lot to be grateful for too,” he said.
Caron Kimball’s father Randy Kimball said his son has already trimmed down his timeline towards walking again from two years to six months.
“It’s everything for Carson to be able to come out here tonight,” he said. “This community has been super supportive and phenomenal in helping us as a family.”
More than $65,000 has been raised for the family as Carson Kimball continues his rehab at the Shepherd Center.
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