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Hospitalized Mission Hills player wrote loving letter to parents
By: MATT NULL and COLLEEN MENSCHING - Staff Writers
Cause of his collapse still unknown | ∞
SAN MARCOS -- A Mission Hills High School football player clinging to life after collapsing during a football game Friday told his mother and stepfather in a e-mail three weeks earlier how much he loved them and the life they have given him.
"I realized just how lucky a kid I am," wrote 17-year-old Scott "Scotty" Eveland. "I love you two very much and felt like typing this letter to you because people need to be reminded how much they do for others all the time."
The linebacker remained in critical condition Tuesday night, according to Andy Hoang, spokesman for Palomar Medical Center in Escondido, where Scotty was rushed by ambulance after a play in the first minute in the second quarter against Santee's West Hills High School.
On Saturday, Mission Hills Principal Brad Lichtman described to reporters seeing Scotty stumble near the Mission Hills sideline during Friday's game. Coaches also noticed Scotty faltering and asked him to lie down on the field. After approximately 15 minutes, he was driven from the field in full uniform and taken to Palomar, where he underwent surgery for severe head trauma.
His mother and stepfather, Paul and Diane Luth, have refrained from commenting publicly since their son was hospitalized.
"We want to thank the community for all the support they have given us," Paul Luth said in a statement he released Tuesday along with a copy of the letter Scotty wrote to them. The Luths requested that some of the content remain unpublished.
In his letter, Scotty thanked his parents for things as simple as keeping cupboards stocked with Gatorade and Dr. Pepper and making sure he had money for tacos. He credited them with his perfect score on an Advanced Placement test and his locker room leadership skills.
"You did a very good job in raising me and I hope to achieve what you two have in your life so far," Scotty wrote.
Many people are still questioning why Eveland went down during the game. No information has been released about whether Eveland had an existing condition or injury that may have contributed to his collapse. People who have access to videotapes of the game have declined to comment on the last play Eveland was involved in.
Both schools videotaped the game, as is customary for high school programs. Most teams usually watch game film on Saturdays after their games, but Mission Hills staff members had said they had not watched the tape.
Lichtman said Tuesday that tapes of the game and Scotty's football equipment have been turned over to the district office as part of a routine division of responsibilities.
First-year West Hills coach Casey Ash said via e-mail that he would "rather not comment on the game or injury." Ash did not respond to an e-mail asking whether he had viewed videotape of the game.
Valley Center High coach Rob Gilster spent his team's off week at the game, scouting Mission Hills for a game Sept. 28. Gilster said Valley Center also videotaped the game, but he had not watched the tape. Gilster said the Jaguars are focusing on their game this week against Chula Vista Mater Dei. He said Mission Hills Athletic Director Ken Putnam told him to keep the videotape "under wraps."
"We were all at the game and we thought it was his ankle," Gilster said. "When he came off the field, he stumbled, but we didn't see anything that stood out. That's why all of us were thinking it was an ankle injury."
Gilster said the play before Eveland's injury was a seemingly normal play that occurred near the Mission Hills sideline.
With games scheduled Friday, many schools are planning special tributes or fundraisers for Eveland. The Valley Center High Associated Student Body is meeting today to form a plan, while Orange Glen football players are working on a large card that will be given to Scotty's family.
Eveland's injury has had an effect on the North County football community.
"While we are all out to get each other on the football field, we are brothers in the game and in the sport," Oceanside coach John Carroll said. "There is definitely a countywide concern amongst football players for this young man, and I am sure thousands of prayers."
Said Carlsbad High coach Bob McAllister, "There is always that reality check when it touches home and it's in your own backyard. There is a greater awareness ... it hits home and you take it to heart and you pay more attention."
-- Contact staff writer Matt Null at mnull@nctimes.com. Contact staff writer Colleen Mensching at (760) 739-6675 or cmensching@nctimes.com.
E-MAIL EXCERPTS
Excerpts from an e-mail critically injured Mission Hills High School football player Scott "Scotty" Eveland sent to his parents three weeks ago:
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Football Parent wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:18 PM:Why is the NC Times trying to make an issue out of an unfortunate accident that is sadly a part of the game being played, especially while the young man is still critical?
God bless you Scott wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:27 PM:I pray that the Lord will heal you completely from this injury. It sounds like you do have great parents and you sound like a great young man.
People care. . . wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:06 PM:...and are praying for this young man and his family. I, for one, appreciate the updates.
Praying for you wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:11 PM:I'm praying for a full and speedy recovery for you Scotty and for strength for your family to endure this trying time. Such a caring and loving letter.
To football parent: wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:25 PM:I really don't think the NC Times is trying to make an issue out of this, just merely letting us all know what an incredible, caring young man Scott is, who, not only appreciates his parents love and support but is also willing to give up what little free time the MHHS football players have by offering to help struggling team mates keep up their grades. Lets just appreciate it for what it really is and pray for this child of God to make a speedy and full recovery. Come on Scotty, you can do it!
To football parent wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:51 PM:I think that is awsome that Scotty wrote that letter to his parents- It shows you what a warm, loving individual he is- It was meant to be that he wrote that when he did- I pray that Scotty makes a complete recovery- with no pain- It sounds like he has a suportive family- Scotty, family 7 Friends you are in my thoughts & prayers- Don't give up on faith.
Reader wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:41 AM:I think the NC Times should put more photos up about this story. It would help a lot more to see what is going on, then just read about it. NC Time Please put up more photos. Of the Church Sevices etc. That would be GREAT! I think the family of Scott Eveland wouldn't mind. Thank you -
cts wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:32 AM:I'll be praying for Scotty and his family and friends.-
Mimi wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:31 AM:Obliviously some parents have great relationships with their children, these people seem to fit the bill. I find that sometimes when tragedy happens some misguided parents resort to hurtful name calling, blame, letter writing to place blame and last but not least suing for money. These parents seem to know their child was doing something he cared about and now they are still giving his body and soul nourishment and strength through their steadfastness. May God bless!-
It's about community wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:28 AM:The whole incident has brought a tremendous sense of community. Our church, San Marcos Lutheran, added Scotty and his family to our prayer chain and the outreach is just amazing for this young man from all schools in North County. Both my kids have made posters for Scott at their schools and all over North County, from the classrooms, to the football fields, to special prayer groups, this young man and his famly have touched so many of us. So to the Football parent who wonders why the NC Tims is making a big deal, I say that you need to realize that it's incidents like this that bring home the fact that despite our busy lives and seeming indifference to each other as a human race, we "do care" for each other. I for one am proud to live in North County....what am amazingly compassionate community. -
To Football Parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:31 AM:I for one only read NCT for community news. It is what helps this community (San Marcos) give the feeling of a small town and helps make it a close knit family. It is evident by the love, support and compassion that has been shown. I never even understood when I would hear about people attending prayer vigils for someone they don't even know until I attended the one for Scotty. I don't even know him or his family but I felt like I needed to be there and I wanted to. There is so much power in prayer. It was an amazing experience. Wishing Scotty a speedy & full recovery and comfort & strength for his family! God Speed!-
DW wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:05 AM:A lot of people in North County are emotionally attached to this story. Thanks for the updates.-
To football parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:03 AM:Denial will not help your football player.
Kelly - wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:19 AM:The Luths kindness and generosity goes much further than their own family! They really are special! Scott, and their other beautiful kids are clearly a reflection of Paul and Diane. Please know, that although we are not by your side night and day, your precious family is in our hearts at every moment right now! Warm Hug, From a grateful recipient of their kind and loving hearts!
Jim wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:22 AM:If anyone wants to donate to assist the family cover medical costs there has been an account set up for donations at Discovery Bank in San Marcos. ...
Cheryl wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:34 AM:We all in North County feel like this is one of our own and Scotty is. Most of us are parents and we feel like parents. I am a grandparent and I am glad to hear how Scotty is doing. It is great to see the whole community pulling for Scotty and giving his parents support.
Football Parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:06 AM:The issue I addressed has to do with viewing game film and finger pointing, not the positive stories and updates.
Jamie wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:58 AM:Those of us that are football parents know this is our worst nightmare. We want to offer our love, support and prayers to this family, and of course to Scotty. Knowing something about the young man we pray for each day means something to us. We wish you well, we will continue to pray, and we ask that NCT continues to keep us informed and continues to paint a picture of Scotty.
San Marcos Resident wrote on Sep 19, 2007 11:15 AM:I don't understand why no one seems to be watching the videos that were taken at the game. What on Earth happened on that football field that caused this boy to be in critical condition?! Best wishes to this young man and his family
B's mom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:05 PM:Ronnie - I have not forgotten about you during this time. You are in my heart and in my prayers buddy. And B- I am so proud of you for being there for him. SO MUCH Love to both of you! Feel my hug!OOO
MHHS parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:36 PM:It does seem meant to be that he wrote that loving tribute to his parents when he did. His appreciation for even the smallest things shows great character, and should be a reminder to us all how precious life is and how it can all change in a moment. Whatever the future holds for this young man, his character is evident and that is something that can never be taken away from him. God bless Scott & his family.
Cheer Mom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:55 PM:I am proud of our community and the compassion that they have shown during this time. Please continue to pray for Scott and his family everyday.
Ty wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:59 PM:Many prayers for him and his family, may god bless you with a speedy recovery a fallen player is a fallen brother to anybody who plays the game..you are in the hearts of many!! GOD BLESS!!
To San Marcos Resident wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:08 PM:It's very possible that this occurred due to something that happened prior to and off the football field. Perhaps his family and friends might know of incidents that occurred. Hopefully, people will speak up if there were any. We may never know why this happened. Only God does.
Jeffers Family wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:52 PM:Just wanted to let Diane and Paul know were still praying and will continue til Scott comes home. Stay strong, I know its hard. May GOD bless you and all your family in this time of sorrow. Ronnie,Craig and Robert be strong and remember God works miracles.....
to Football Parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:09 PM:No one is trying to make an "issue" out of anything. This is a tragedy any time it happens and not just "sadly a part of the game being played". Your comment was insensitive and cold.
Scott wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:11 PM:Why are the video tapes under wraps???
to Football Parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:18 PM:Reporting on an item of local concern does not equate to "making an issue". The stories focus as much on the school and community response, as they do on the incident itself. More importantly, they highlight the need to be aware of health concerns in any sport where violent collisions may/will occur. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, this story hits especially close to home. At the same time that this young man was being taken to the hospital, my son was on the sidelines at his school's football game - in street clothes. He was held out by his coaches and trainer because of a concern raised by a lingering headache after a blow to the head. A subsequent medical examination found no abnormalities, but he is still being held out of contact until a full week passes after his last symptoms. As a result, I have read a lot about concussions recently, and specifically about Second Impact Syndrome. As parents of athletes who participate in these sports, we need to make sure our sons/daughters are aware of the need for proper treatment of all injuries, but especially those involving the head. It's sobering to think of the number of times athletes "get there bell rung", and then shake it off and continue playing.
KLM wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:45 PM:it is an extremely sad issue but obviously something happened on the field that coaches/players (?) don't want to disclose...? that is how i feel. did he sustain a hit and was told to get back out and play and now people feel guilty about that? It is very suspect ... I am glad that the family is being private about the condition of their son but the circumstances surrounding are sketchy
Karl wrote on Sep 19, 2007 4:27 PM:I do not know this young man but judging from the outpouring of support and the letter to his parents, he must be very special. As a father of a son who played HS football a few years ago, I agonize for his parents. Keep the faith, we will pray for Scott.
MHHS Football Parent wrote on Sep 19, 2007 5:02 PM:May God bless Scotty and his family and give him the strength to make a speedy and full recovery. We are all praying for you Scotty! You mean so much to the MH Grizzlies and you have touched the heart of your community. "Now is the Time" to fight #54! Much love!
PJ wrote on Sep 19, 2007 5:04 PM:That letter is evidence of a young man's maturity beyond his years. What a fine young gentleman. It is so refreshing to see evidence of a young person that "gets it" as far as thankfulness and realization for all his parents have done for him.
Firman wrote on Sep 19, 2007 5:15 PM:If the injury of this young man can help other parents to weigh the possibility of what might happen to their youngsters if they play football, then that will be a good thing. My best wishes for his recovery and the peace of mind of his family.
TO KLM wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:28 PM:Perhaps he suffered from an incident long before the football game. There could be other circumstances here. Let's just hope he gets better.
just me wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:55 PM:All I know, is that my family and I pray for Scotty and his family each night. We do not know him but he is part of our community! I say, thank you to NCT for actually covering a story that is important and close to our hearts. I too agonize for his parents and pray that he will recover fully. He sounds like a remarkable young man!
julie wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:21 PM:I have been following this story since this tragedy took place. I appreciate the NCT for offering continuing coverage, so we can have some kind of idea how Scott is doing. My heart breaks for the family and they are in my prayers all the time.I pray that Scott will recover soon and be back home with his family.
From A Panther to A Grizzly wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:29 PM:Vista High Panthers are praying for you, Scotty! Get well soon.
MHHS Parent wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:26 AM:Pleae concentrate on praying for Scotty and stop making ridiculous speculations on cover up conspiracies. Right now is the time to concentrate on Scotty. I am tired of the rumors and insinuations, if you are not close enough to know the facts, refrain from voicing your "opinions".
Football Parent wrote on Sep 20, 2007 2:12 PM:I appreciate that NC Times has the courage to ask the tough questions. When we send our kids on the football field, we hope the coaches will take them out of the game if they are hurt or in trouble instead of overlooking it. I continue to pray for Scott but everyone can't just look at this with rose colored glasses. Someone has to ask the tough questions. Thanks NC Times for having the courage to do so. Your tough questions may save the next kid.
blackdragon95825 wrote on Sep 21, 2007 1:10 PM:I don't even know Scott but I'm praying for him because I believe in the power of prayer and I have faith in knowing the Lord is working through Scott to heal him.
Concerned wrote on Sep 23, 2007 3:45 PM:Is there any previous injuries that may have lead to this? Get through this Scotty because you are an individual who deserves to continue making a difference in others' lives!/
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