Dozens show support in 5K run for Perkins grad’s new charity, the New Perspective Foundation ouriel@sanduskyregister.com When he played football at Ohio State, Tyson Gentry had about 100 teammates by his side. But now, about a decade after a devastating injury paralyzed him, a new squad Gentry personally quarterbacks numbers in the thousands. Almost 200 of those supporters showed up Saturday morning at Battery Park Marina in Sandusky to participate in a 5K and fun run. The event capped off a whirlwind week for Gentry who canvassed all across Erie County to publicize his nonprofit, launching earlier this year. Coined the New Perspective Foundation, Gentry’s cause aims to support victims of spinal cord injuries living in Ohio and Florida by assisting their families with lodging and transportation costs. Gentry, a 2004 Perkins graduate now residing in Florida, created the charity so families can spend as much time as possible with their loved ones during difficult times without worrying about costly travel expenses. “One of the most important things, next to the medical team and God’s healing, is having a support system,” Gentry said. “They are there to lift your spirits, and you need that support.” After walking on to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team in 2004, Gentry suffered a horrific injury during an intrasquad scrimmage in April 2006. He caught a pass over the middle of the field and hit the ground awkwardly when tackled. Gentry was instantly paralyzed from the neck down — and his life, along with his family’s, changed forever. But he called an audible on the disastrous incident, turning a crushing blow into a benevolent and unparalleled cause. …
Continue Reading: Bucking up for Tyson
