Injured Wyoming Wrestler in Stable Condition

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Don Tolin (WUSA WY State Editor)
01/23/2001


Andy Scott, a senior from Powell High School, is in stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit of the Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Scott, a contender for this year's 3A Wyoming State Championship at 145 pounds, was airlifted to Casper from Thermopolis on Friday, following a neck injury he sustained during the opening seconds of his second round match of the Bobcat Invitational Wrestling Tournament at the Hot Springs High School Gym in Thermopolis, Wyoming.     Scott underwent extensive surgery on Saturday to repair the broken fourth and fifth vertebrae in his neck. According to those who witnessed this unfortunate accident, Scott had landed awkwardly on his neck during a takedown just after the beginning whistle. Although the surgery appears to be successful and his injuries do not appear to be life threatening, the accident has left the high school wrestler paralyzed  below his upper arms and chest. The doctors are uncertain of his prognosis at this time, however there is a slim chance he may regain the use of his lower extremities in the future. He will be transferred to Craig Hospital in Denver, Colorado which specializes in treating these type of injuries.     Scott has been an avid wrestler since the age of 6, participating in the USA Wrestling program, and then on to Junior High School Wrestling, before becoming a member of one of the top 3A high school wrestling programs in Wyoming.     The wrestler's family has asked that the wrestling community keep Andy Scott in their thoughts and prayers. Donations to help defray his medical costs are being accepted by Big Horn Federal, 151 East First Street, Powell, WY 82435.