It’s been two weeks since former UCLA basketball star Ray Young III fell unconscious while playing a pickup game with his friends.
According to Young’s family, the 37-year-old’s heart stopped beating and he laid unresponsive until players and gym staff performed CPR on him. Once they arrived, medics were able to revive him and get him to the hospital.
Initially given a five percent chance of survival, Young awoke from a two-day coma and is now on the road to recovery.
The family has established a GoFundMe account, which has already raised over $36,000 on Young’s behalf. All donations are being used to help cover the bills and keep him out of debt.
The family has also been updating people who’ve donated through the page. The former Bruin underwent surgery to place a defibrillator in his chest last week.
“A couple of days after surgery, Ray was released from the hospital and has mostly been at home resting. Although he won’t be able to play basketball for a couple of months, he of course couldn’t wait to return to the gym where I was told he was terrible at running the clock and keeping score.”
People are rallying behind Young. His family went on to express how grateful they are for that:
“We wanted to send one last update and say one final THANK YOU for all of the love and support that you have sent Ray’s way! It didn’t take long for the first bill from the hospital to arrive, but your generosity has made it easier to brace the journey ahead. We will be closing this campaign at the end of the week, but encourage you to continue to keep Ray in your prayer’s through rehab, therapy, and recovery. Thank you!”
The GoFundMe goal is set at $100,000. Even though it looks like it might come up short, it’s nice to see people reaching out to help. In a world where evil and hate make headlines every day, it’s good to see love and goodwill being shared.
In his four seasons at UCLA, Young averaged 10.1 points and 2 assists per game. He also spent a few years in the NBA, playing in the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans Hornets organizations.