Fans rally around Devon with Facebook messages and support

Carol Schlueter cjs@tulane.edu
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In Tulsa, Okla., Tulane senior Devon Walker remains in ICU after spinal surgery on Sunday (Sept. 9), but his fans in New Orleans and across the nation are sending him messages through Facebook and a website established by Tulane that also offers ways to make a donation on Devon's behalf.

Student-athlete Devon Walker at football game.

Senior Devon Walker (No. 18), a safety and three-year Green Wave letterman, is a leader on the Tulane team. (Photo from Tulane athletics)


Tulane has seen an outpouring of support for Devon and his family since he sustained a cervical spine fracture on Saturday (Sept. 9) during the Tulsa–Tulane football game. He is in stable condition at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, where he is with his family and Tulane athletics director Rick Dickson.

“There are generous and kind people all around the nation who've asked us how they can help — whether by making a gift to help defray his medical costs, or by offering food, services and other assistance to his family,” Tulane officials wrote on the Support For Devon website.

A donations page offers several ways to provide financial assistance toward Devon's care. Financial gifts that are made are not donations to Tulane — the university is serving as an agent for the Walker family, and all proceeds will be forwarded to a financial institution designated by the family to help defray medical and other costs.

Supporters also can send email messages and get well cards via instructions on the Support for Devon website. Messages are pouring into a Facebook fan page established for him.

“Our prayers are with you,” Beckie Phillips Yarhger of Tulsa said in her Facebook post. “I am a Tulsa fan, but a fan of all athletes, and it was awful for this to happen to you. ALL of Tulsa is pulling for you and your family. You are obviously loved by many!”

Speaking for many in the Tulane community, Evan Reichlin Skinner wrote, “We join Tulane parents across the U.S. and the world offering our thoughts, prayers and support to you and your family.”