Ethan's Story

Ethan Glynn was a three-sport athlete in his hometown of Bloomington, Minnesota playing football, hockey and baseball.  His athleticism and determination were always on display no matter what sport he was playing. Ethan was more than just a talented athlete; he was a true leader. As captain of his hockey team, shortstop for his baseball team, and a versatile player on the football field, Ethan demonstrated unwavering commitment, exceptional teamwork, and a relentless drive for excellence. His dedication, sense of humor and positive spirit inspiring those around him. And always in his #8 jersey.

Ethan and his family’s journey would forever change on September 2, 2022, during Ethan’s first freshman football game when he was just 15. Ethan made a tackle to stop the runner on 4th down however Ethan did not stand up after that play. The tackle left Ethan paralyzed from the shoulders down. 

The community rallied around Ethan, offering unwavering support, but the challenges he faced were immense. 

Ethan spent the next 26 days in the ICU and endured 3 surgeries. He was on a ventilator and feeding tube communicating through an iPad that read his eyes. There was talk that the injury was severe enough that Ethan may need a ventilator for life. However, that same dedicated and perseverance shown through, and “E” was able to successfully remove the ventilator and a few days later the feeding tubes were removed as well. 

After his initial month in the ICU, he was transferred to Craig Hospital in Colorado. Craig is a world-renowned rehabilitation hospital that exclusively specializes in neurorehabilitation and research for individuals with spinal cord injury and brain injury.  E spent the next 3 months in Colorado where his days were filled with speech, occupational & physical therapy, and school so he could stay on track. Upon completing his stay at Craig, he returned home to Minnesota. 

He will be starting his junior year of high school. He continues to push himself at therapy. He currently participates in the ABLE Program at Courage Kenny 3 days a week. The ABLE Program is a complete fitness and wellness program that incorporates locomotor training, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and guided fitness activities to encourage muscles and movement below the level of injury. 

Throughout all the immense challenges he faced, Ethan remained a beacon of hope and positivity. His glass half-full perspective and unwavering determination inspired those around him, demonstrating the incredible power of the human spirit. Even in the darkest moments, Ethan's infectious optimism and unwavering drive fueled his journey toward recovery. His underlying resilience, perseverance, and positive outlook on the future continues to inspire and empower individuals facing adversity.