Mackenzie Saunders, a 6th grade student at Akimel A-al Middle School and goalkeeper for the AFSC 98 Sting Red team, was partially paralyzed December 19th after being struck in the back by an opposing player during a soccer game.

Ms. Saunders, daughter of Liz and Gary Saunders, was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa after being diagnosed with a slight fracture and spinal contusion that resulted in loss of sensation to the young girl’s lower legs.

Mackenzie, known as “Mack” to her teammates, has regained some sensation in her lower legs and is able to sit up in a wheelchair.  Mack has been transferred to St. Joseph’s in downtown Phoenix, where she will undergo rigorous and lengthy physical therapy in hopes of a full recovery.

To follow Mackenzie’s progress, you can visit her Journal page on her CaringBridge website.

Friends of the Saunders family are asking for financial assistance from the local community to help defray the Saunders’ significant medical expenses and to assist Mack in her recovery.  People wishing to donate money can go to any Bank of America branch and deposit funds in the “Mackenzie Saunders Medical Fund” or use the “donate” button on the right.

All donations will go directly to aid in Mackenzie’s recovery. Thank you for your participation!