Youngster Who Fell at PNC Park Takes First Steps, but Recovery Will Be Long
A 20-year-old who suffered a fall from a height of 21 feet at PNC Park during a Pittsburgh Pirates game, has taken his first steps. However, his recovery is shaping up to be a long process.
The incident occurred last week during the game against the Chicago Cubs. The young man slipped from a railing and fell onto the field during the seventh inning of the game.
“Seeing him standing and moving was a huge victory and definitely lifted everyone’s spirits,” said Jennifer Phillips, organizer of a GoFundMe page for Markwood.
Jennifer Phillips
Markwood was admitted to the trauma center at Allegheny General Hospital in critical condition after the accident.
“He still has a long way to go: he is dealing with a neck, collarbone, and back fracture, so there are many obstacles ahead,” Phillips wrote. “But he is showing great strength and we remain hopeful for a speedy recovery. This will also require a lot of rest and following the instructions of the excellent doctors, nurses, and hospital staff.”
Jennifer Phillips
As of Monday night, the GoFundMe page had raised almost $41,000, surpassing 90% of its initial goal of $45,000.
Pittsburgh’s Public Safety authorities, including the Police and emergency services, have classified the incident as an accident.
