Warrior Run Benefits Teen Injured in Tubing Accident

It was May 16 when Xavier Johnson and a few friends were out enjoying a day on a local lake.

For Johnson, 16, the day ended tragically when the jet ski that was towing his tube had to veer out of the path of an oncoming vessel. Johnson’s tube struck a nearby dock, causing the teen to suffer a severe brain injury.

While Johnson has yet to awaken since the accident, friends and family continue to rally to the popular Sunlake High School football player’s side. Next up is the Warrior Run, a 5K event with a 1-mile fun run, set to take place Aug. 8 at 8 a.m. at Lake Park in Lutz.

“The race is 100 percent nonprofit in order to give all proceeds to the Johnsons,” explained family friend Valerie Murray. Registration for the event is ongoing and sponsors are being sought, as well.

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• Fundraiser Benefits Sunlake Football Player Injured in Tubing Accident

“Xavier remains hospitalized as he continues to emerge from his coma state,” Murray explained. “He is breathing on his own, but is not speaking. He is learning to follow simple commands while beginning to regain use of his muscles.”

Murray said the road to recovery is expected to be a long one.

“Xavier will eventually need to be transferred to a rehab facility,” Murray told Patch. “The rehab facility that is best suited to Xavier’s needs does not appear to be covered under Xavier’s health insurance, thus, the need for fundraising.”

Runners who are interested in participating in the event may sign up online. The cost is $20 for adults in the 5K and $15 for students. The fun run’s entry fee is $15 for everyone.

Businesses interested in sponsoring the event are asked to email Leah Williams at warriorrun4x@gmail.com.

A gofundme campaign to offset Johnson’s medical bills is also ongoing.