Community rallies around Mississippi College student hurt in crash
Mississippi College track athlete Grayson Foster is in critical condition following a devastating motorcycle crash over the weekend that left him severely injured and in need of extensive medical support, including the amputation of one leg and the transfusion of multiple units of blood.
According to Foster's father, the back tire of his motorcycle slipped while he was riding on Robinson Spring Road in Madison County last Saturday.
His best friend was on a motorcycle behind him.
He removed Grayson's helmet so he would be able to breathe until paramedics arrived.
The college community and people across the country are rallying around Foster, who is known not only for his achievements on the track but for his unwavering support of others, even when sidelined by his own injuries.
Now, in the wake of this life-altering accident, it’s the community’s turn to show up for him.
Foster, a dedicated member of the Mississippi College track and cross-country teams, is widely respected for his discipline and heart.
“Grayson was a hard worker. He showed up, and he just loved to run. That was something a lot of people prided him on. Super impressive what he did in his time,” Cole Benoit, a former Mississippi College track athlete, said.
Even when he couldn’t compete last season due to an injury, Foster continued to support his teammates from the sidelines.
“Just trust God through this process. There's more to life than running. And I'd tell him: just keep doing the next right thing. That's all we can do,” Benoit said.
Foster required six units of blood in one day alone, and his family is urging community members to donate.
“Blood is essential. It transports oxygen and nutrients. Having it readily available is what saves lives,” said Annette Rowland of the American Red Cross.
Benoit said the outpouring of support “speaks volumes to who Grayson Foster is. He's someone people care about.”
Foster’s journey has now taken a dramatic turn, but his support system is stronger than ever.
Mississippi College’s head cross-country coach released a statement expressing hope and faith.
“Grayson is a fighter, and right now he’s in the biggest fight of his life. We’ve already seen God’s hand at work sustaining him, and we believe He’s not done yet. We love Grayson and are continuing to pray for him, his family, and his medical team during this time,” the coach said.
Blood donations can be made in his name at any Mississippi Blood Services Center location using the code EQ32.