Tulane defensive back Devon Walker underwent spine stabilizing surgery Sunday evening to repair a fractured spine he sustained in Saturday’s game against Tulsa. Walker was involved in a collision near the end of the first half of the game and laid motionless on the field before eventually being taken by ambulance to a hospital.
Doctors still say it’s too early to tell what the long-term ramifications of Walker’s injury will be, but there is at least some good news today as Walker continues to stay in intensive care in St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa.
Tulane athletic director Rick Dickson said during a press conference that Walker is alert and verbally responsive. He is also apparently in good spirits. Tulane coach Curtis Johnson reportedly said earlier today that Walker was moving his shoulders, but Dickson could not confirm that development.
“Without question Devon Walker and his family have been treated as one of Tulsa’s own,” Dickson said. “We’ve seen absolutely the best of people and the best of human nature.”
Walker’s family, which is staying with him in Tulsa, released the following statement on Tulane’s website:“We have been overwhelmed by the amount of concerned well wishes we have received from all over the world. Although we cannot respond individually to all, we thank everyone for the love and support shown to Devon and our family. The medical care that our son has received so far has been outstanding. We are also very grateful for the care and concern shown to us by those here at Tulsa University, in the City of Tulsa, at Tulane University and of course by everyone at home in New Orleans.
We appreciate you respecting our family’s request for privacy. We do ask that you continue to keep Devon in your prayers.”
We certainly will. It’s just good to hear that Walker got out of surgery alright and is recovering well.
(Information posted here is credited to Tammy Nunez of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.)