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Friends raising money for Georgia teen paralyzed in swimming accident

15-year-old Jared Jordan was paralyzed from the chest down. Here's how you can help.
Credit: Go Fund Me
Jared Jordan was injured in a swimming pool accident and his family is now seeking help with medical expenses.

MACON, Ga. — Earlier this month, Jared Jordan and his friends were enjoying an average summer day, having fun and cooling off in a swimming pool. 

It would wind up being a life-changing day.

Jordan dove into the pool and hit his head at the bottom, according to local reports, leaving him with multiple spinal fractures. Jordan's friends Alex Brooks, Alex Orona, and Cameron Tompkins were able to pull him out of the pool and call for help just in time. 

According to a GoFundMe set up for Jordan and his family, doctors discovered that he suffered C5 and C6 fractures in his lower cervical nerves, which help with controlling arms and hands. 

He was taken in for emergency surgery where his C5 was removed and his C6 was fused with his C4. 

After lying in a hospital bed for 10 days, Jordan was finally able to maintain alertness and sit in a wheelchair. He has been transferred to the Shepherd Center on 2020 Peachtree Rd NW for physical and occupational therapy. 

The GoFundMe says Jared is slowly regaining feeling in his legs, feet and his fingers.

"The family is preparing for a long road ahead," the original post said.

The fundraising effort started with a goal of $15,000 for transportation and healthcare costs. They have made $12,291 so far, and are hoping to raise more. 

Updates to the GoFundMe have shown Jordan making progress.

The most recent one, posted on Wednesday, showed him doing physical exercises at Shepherd.

"Jared working hard with OT today at Shepherd’s!! The Jordans are so appreciative of all the prayers and contributions," the update says. 

Others showed him with his smiling parents and sitting up for the first time since the accident.

According to the GoFundMe, the family is optimistic about Jordan's progress and finding strength in their faith.

"We Believe in God’s plan and know He is ultimately in control," it says.

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