‘Spartan Strong’: Community Rallies Around Injured Capital Region Teen

Friends, Family, Teammates, and the BHBL Community Rally

A Capital Region community is showing just how quickly it can come together when one of its own needs support.

Friends, teammates, families, and community members are rallying around Austin Mason, a sophomore at Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School and member of the Spartans football and wrestling teams.

Injured While Celebrating a Birthday

According to a GoFundMe organized on behalf of Austin's family, the teenager was celebrating his birthday with friends when he was involved in an accident. Austin reportedly fell from a golf cart, landed on his head, and was transported by ambulance to Albany Medical Center.

Heather Mason picture here with her two boys, Dillon (L) and Austin (R). Photo: Heather Mason Facebook

The fundraiser says Austin suffered a skull fracture and multiple brain bleeds. His injuries require constant monitoring, and he is facing what is expected to be a longer recovery.

Read More: Alleged Youth Sports Scheme Dupes Parents in Saratoga County

As Austin's parents, Mike and Heather Mason, remain by his side, the community has responded in a big way. The GoFundMe, created to help with Austin's medical care and other expenses while his parents step away from work, has already raised more than $16,000 toward its $22,000 goal.

But the support has gone well beyond donations.

Austin, a member of the BHBL wrestling team, suffered a horrific brain injury while celebrating his birthday recently.  Photo: Heather Mason Facebook

Austin's Mom Thanked Everyone on Facebook

In an emotional Facebook post, Heather thanked everyone who has reached out, prayed, called, checked in, and offered support to their family.

She gave special thanks to BH-BL Football and Wrestling, BH-BL High School, and Pashley Elementary for surrounding the family with love during an incredibly difficult time.

Austin sadly has a long road to recovery, according to the GoFundMe page set up by friends of the family. Photo: Heather Mason Facebook

Heather said the family now needs time to heal, process everything, and take things one day at a time. But she also made one thing very clear:

“We are SPARTAN STRONG.”

And judging by the incredible response from the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake community, the Mason family has an entire army of Spartans standing behind them.

If you'd like to learn more about Austin's plight or make a donation to the family, click here.