Family of OSU wrestler says he has 'difficult road' ahead of him
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The family of an Ohio State University wrestler said he has a “long, difficult road ahead of him,” revealing the student-athlete cannot walk without assistance after a shooting earlier this month.
Sammy Sasso was shot during a carjacking on Aug. 18, suffering a gunshot wound to the abdomen, his family revealed in the statement.
Sasso suffered severe nerve damage to his spine and spent three days in the intensive care unit, his family said. He was then transferred to an acute care unit, where he is still receiving treatment.
Sasso, a fifth-year senior at OSU, underwent two surgeries after the shooting, including one to remove the bullet near his spine, the family wrote.
“Upon his release from the hospital, he will be transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility where he will undergo comprehensive physical therapy aimed at learning how to walk again,” the statement, which Sasso retweeted, reads. “At this time, Sammy is unable to walk without assistance. While the doctors are hopeful that he will make a full recovery, Sammy has a long, difficult road ahead of him.”
Sasso, from Nazareth, Pa., is a decorated collegiate wrestler with two Big Ten titles and two NCAA runner-up finishes.
“Sammy’s journey has taken an unexpected turn, yet even in the face of adversity his spirit remains unbroken,” the statement reads.
The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with Sasso's medical costs. The family's full statement from the GoFundMe reads:
Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Supporters
With hopeful hearts, we are reaching out to the community for support during this difficult time. On the evening of Friday, August 18th, beloved Ohio State wrestler Sammy Sasso suffered a gunshot wound to his abdomen as a result of a carjacking.
Sammy was immediately rushed to the hospital where he underwent emergency surgery to reconstruct his colon. The following morning, he underwent another surgery to remove the bullet near his spine. As a result of the bullet’s trajectory, he sustained severe nerve damage to his spine. After spending three days in ICU, he was transferred to an acute care unit where he continues to receive care for his injuries.
Upon his release from the hospital, he will be transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility where he will undergo comprehensive physical therapy aimed at learning how to walk again. At this time, Sammy is unable to walk without assistance. While the doctors are hopeful that he will make a full recovery, Sammy has a long, difficult road ahead of him.
Sammy’s athletic journey has been one of triumph and inspiration. As a dedicated and hardworking wrestler, Sammy has achieved numerous successes throughout his life. To name a few, he is a two-time Big Ten wrestling champion, a four-time All-American, and a two-time NCAA Championship finalist. Before his successful college career, he wrestled for Nazareth High School, where he broke several of the school’s records. Additionally, he was a four-time Pennsylvania AAA state place winner and two-time state champion. However, Sammy’s impact extends far beyond the mat.
What truly sets Sammy apart is his boundless kindness and selflessness. His dedication to his family and friends is unparalleled, and his uplifting presence radiates positivity. He has touched the lives of many. His infectious smile brightens the days of anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His heart beats for coaching and guiding young minds, spreading his love for the sport of wrestling, and nurturing the potential within each child he encounters. From teaching the perfect cradle to instilling unwavering confidence, Sammy has been a mentor and a role model to countless wrestlers. He isn't just a wrestling champion; he's a champion when it comes to uplifting everyone around him.
Sammy’s journey has taken an unexpected turn, yet even in the face of adversity his spirit remains unbroken. The love and support pouring in from around the country is a testament to the mark Sammy has left on our hearts. Now, more than ever, Sammy needs support from the community.
Your contribution will help support Sammy’s recovery and provide him with the resources he needs to regain his strength and continue his inspirational journey. Every donation, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to providing Sammy the support he needs.
Thank you in advance for your kindness and support.
With love,
The Sasso Family
NBC4 reported on a shooting that occurred that same night in Weinland Park at 1396 N. High Street. A witness at the scene told NBC4 they had just parked at the Kroger across the street when they heard the gunfire. The witness called 911 after they saw someone run out of the alley while a male victim remained with a gunshot wound near his ribcage.
The victim of that shooting was transported to Wexner Medical Center in serious condition. A witness at the scene said Sasso was the victim, but police have, to date, not confirmed that. There has been no further update from police on the shooting that injured Sasso.