TEMECULA – A 20-year-old football player from Temecula has received tremendous support nationwide after he was left paralyzed from the neck down following a practice injury two weeks ago. Jason Pugal, a Great Oak High School and Palomar alumnus, suffered the injury while practicing with his new college team in Nebraska.
Jason was planning on being a standout safety at Chadron State College this season, but this tragic accident has taken that dream away from him, for now. The incident occurred during a practice session where he tackled a receiver, resulting in a fracture of his C-6 vertebra and causing instant paralysis.
Following this severe neck injury, Pugal was immediately flown to Rapid City, South Dakota, to undergo emergency spinal fusion surgery to stabilize his neck and protect his spinal cord.
Since the incident, Pugal has been receiving treatment for his injury while the medical bills and transportation costs to bring him back home to Temecula keep adding up. His family has created a GoFundMe page titled “Support Jason’s Journey to Recovery” to raise funds for his rehabilitation.
As of Monday, August 26, the campaign has raised close to $80,000 out of its $85,000 goal, with nearly 1,000 donations pouring in from supporters.
“We’re just hoping and praying that we are able to get him over to San Diego or Southern California to where we can begin his road to rehab, and we can all be here to support him,” said Mark Pugal, Jason’s father, in an interview with KABC. “Our hearts are very heavy, and we’re all trying to remain as hopeful and faithful as our son is, because he is quite a remarkable individual.”
Jason’s brother, Kyle Pugal, also expressed his feelings on the GoFundMe page, stating, “At just 20 years old, my faithful brother Jason is facing the toughest challenge of his life. The road to recovery will be long and uncertain, but with the Lord Yeshua guiding him and our family along with his determination and your support, Jason has a fighting chance to regain his mobility.”
Before his injury, Jason, a 2022 graduate of Great Oak, played two seasons for the Palomar Comets, finishing with 39 total tackles, a fumble recovery for 30 yards, and two interceptions, one of which he returned for 23 yards. He also recorded two pass breakups during his time with the team.
The Pugal family remains grateful for the overwhelming support they have received from the community during this challenging time. They are hopeful that with continued donations, Jason will be able to begin an intensive rehabilitation program aimed at helping him regain his mobility.
Anyone wishing to support Jason Pugal, and his family, can visit the GoFundMe page by clicking here. All support will go to his medical and rehabilitation expenses.
