Community rallies around critically injured Maple Shade baseball player
MAPLE SHADE, N.J. (WPVI) -- A wave of support continues to grow for 12-year-old Xavier Taylor, the Maple Shade baseball player critically injured after being struck in the neck by a ball during warmups nearly two weeks ago.
"We believe in miracles," said Karen Tilton, president of Maple Shade Girls Softball, as the community unites around the young athlete.
Residents across the region and country have worn Xavier's number 6 at games, placed bats outside their homes, and dressed in blue to show solidarity.
"It's heartwarming. It really is," said Geralyn Williams of Mount Laurel.
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Xavier remains hospitalized on a ventilator, and the severity of his injuries has weighed heavily on friends.
"It makes me sad to see him in the hospital right now," said McKinley Schoonover, one of Xavier's friends.
Still, his father says there are signs of progress. Xavier is no longer on blood pressure medication, his vital signs are stable, and he is receiving nutritional care.
"I hope he's feeling the love right now from all of us," said Tilton.
The baseball world has also reached out.
Phillies catcher Garrett Stubbs visited Xavier and gave him a signed bat. The Trenton Thunder honored him at home plate and dedicated a signed bat "as a symbol that he's not fighting this battle alone."
The Tampa Bay Rays sent him a video from the team.
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Bright blue porch lights have begun appearing around town in Xavier's honor. The Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Camden City Hall were also lit up in blue this week. The community fundraising efforts have surpassed $125,000 to support his family.
Meanwhile, messages of encouragement continue to pour in.
"I hope you get way better, and everyone, including me, is sending prayers to you," Schoonover said.
Williams added, "The Lord is with you, and you will get better." Tilton told him, "You have so much left to do here, and everyone cannot wait to see you again."
