Paralyzed While Wrestling, Pleasanton Teen Is A Fighter

PLEASANTON, CA — The Tri-Valley community and local businesses are rallying to help raise funds for a Pleasanton high-schooler who suffered a critical spinal injury while wrestling in 2017. The life-changing injury left 16-year-old Myles Molnar paralyzed from the chest down. Since then, the Foothill High School sophomore who was told he may never walk again or use his fingers has been determined to beat the odds.

After more than a year of intensive and emotional rehabilitation efforts, Myles has regained some movement, control and feeling. He will soon be able to enjoy one the many teenage milestones he has missed since he was injured. Thanks to a special adaptive vehicle with hand controls, Myles will eventually be able to drive.

In the meantime, Myles is waiting to take part in treatment at the NeuroRecovery Network, which is a Christopher Reeve Foundation program that focuses on intensive therapy.

A GoFundMe page established to help Myles and his family has garnered more than $42,000 since it was launched in February of 2017. Although his parents have health insurance, the costs associated with his treatment and care are overwhelming and continue to accrue.

In an effort to help, the Omni Fight Club in Pleasanton is hosting a special fundraiser to help Myles. "A Day For Myles" will be held on April 14. Owner Dennis Dumas says the goal is to raise $10,000 and all of the class donations will go to Myles. More than 200 people have signed up to participate in a day of fitness classes at the club, according to Dumas.

Dumas, who was seriously injured during an ATV accident when he was just 14, said that after learning about the young athlete's injury, he connected emotionally with the teenager's struggle for independence.

"When I was injured, I had to depend on my stepmom for showers and personal needs just like Myles does with his mom," Dumas told Patch. "From there, I was determined to use the power of the OFC community in the Tri-Valley to do all we can to help Myles gain more independence!"

Those interested in participating must RSVP and a $10 donation is requested per class. Classes are limited to 80 people per session. The club will also offer food, drinks and raffle tickets. Classes are offered at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon.

Those who are unable to participate in the fundraiser may donate to the GoFundMe campaign or to the Myles Molnar Medical Trust at the First Republic Bank in Pleasanton. Reference account number 800006520805 when donating. Follow his journey on Facebook. The Omni Fight Club in Pleasanton is located at 6654 Koll Center Pkwy. Suite 185.

Watch this heartwarming video of Myles as he practices driving:

Photo of Myles Molnar courtesy GoFundMe
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