Gladstone High athletes plan second benefit game for injured alumnus
Jake Wheeler, a former Gladstone High football and basketball player, was injured in a July 14 swimming accident, A fractured neck vertebra left him paralyzed below the torso, but with daily therapy, doctors are hopeful he will be walking again in a year.
Gladstone’s varsity football team plans their annual endowment game against Astoria, with half the proceeds to support a recovery and rehabilitation fund for Wheeler. Earlier this month, a Gladstone girls soccer match between the state defending champs and alumni players raised nearly $7,000 to help the young man through a challenging time.
“Jake’s in really good spirits,” said alumni soccer event organizer Amanda Schumaker. “He’s making great progress, and so many people are supporting him.”
The football game will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, August 30 at Gladstone High School’s Dick Baker Stadium, 18800 Portland Avenue. Tickets cost $6 for adults and $4 for students. (No passes will be allowed for this game.)
Wheeler is now a college student at Portland State University and plans to continue his studies this fall. He lives in Gladstone, where his mother is remodeling the family’s house for easier access.
For more information about this event, contact Athletic Director Ted Yates at 503-655-2544, ext. 403.
What’s your vision for Gladstone schools?
Gladstone Schools is hosting a series of community conversations about the future of schools. Input will be used as the district moves forward with education planning.
Parents, community members, and students are invited to attend any event. All forums begin at 6:30 p.m., with free childcare provided.
• May 19 Kraxberger Middle School: 17777 Webster Road
• May 25 Gladstone Center for Children & Families: 18905 Portland Avenue
• May 31 John Wetten Elementary: 250 E. Exeter Street
Those unable to attend are invited to participate in the survey online at www.oregon-rising.org.