On September 26, 2015, I met the Gales family in terrible circumstances--after Devon's devastating spinal cord injury while playing football at Sanford Stadium. What began as a tragedy has brought so much to so many. Devon and his family have been a gift to me personally and to the Athens and UGA community at large. We have learned what courage and grace truly are, how a family's love for one another triumphs again and again. And we have all experienced the truth that in giving, we receive so much more than we could ever have imagined. We were all strangers before that day, and now we are privileged to know this incredible young man and his family, who are working harder than most of will ever understand to make a new way in this world after a moment that changed everything. They have chosen determination, love and purpose over defeat. What an example for all of us.

Be part of building that better way. Join me in supporting the Gales in their journey. Let's build a home....

The University of Georgia Athletic Association has begun fundraising to help build a handicapped-accessible home for the family of Devon Gales, the former Southern University football wide receiver who suffered a career-ending spinal injury at Sanford Stadium in 2015.

With a goal of $500,000, The University of Georgia Athletic Association strives to build a home that includes all the necessary medical equipment required for Devon's care.

You can make donations in your chosen amount by texting “Devon” to the following number: (706) 204-1707. If you prefer to write a check, please make it payable to “Devon Gales House Construction Fund” and send to:

UGAAA

1 Selig Circle

Butts-Mehre Hall Rm. 402

Athens, GA 30603

Attn: Bryant Gantt