Georgia high school baseball player dies a month after being hit in the head by a bat
A Georgia high school baseball player died nearly a month after he was hit in the head by a bat.
Jeremy Medina, a senior at Gainesville High School, died on Monday, his family announced on social media. He was 18.
"We began the process of seeking a visa for his grandmother so she could travel to be with us for the honor walk," Medina’s family said. "Sadly, his heart stopped last night about an hour before grandma arrived. We know Jeremy was and will always be in God’s hands and we will see him soon."
A pitcher and catcher for the Gainesville baseball team, Medina was accidentally struck in the head by a baseball bat while inside the batting cages on the school's campus on Nov. 20, according to the Gainesville City School System. School principal Jamie Green told WSB-TV Medina leaned into the net of the batting cage while a teammate followed through a swing as there was "no horseplay, no misconduct, and no intent" in the accident.
Medina was then placed in a coma, but last week, doctors announced at a press conference they had declared him brain dead, and the family said they would fulfill his wish to become an organ donor.
"We are grateful for all the prayers and support over the last three weeks, and we appreciate everyone's understanding as we take time now to be with our family," his family said.
Medina's family announced that any future information will be shared on their website. The school school system posted a tribute video on social media.
"The life of Jeremy Medina will forever impact the lives of our entire community. His passing will mean renewed life for many others as an organ donor," the Gainesville City School System said. "Please continue to pray for the Medina family." Information about Jeremy's Honor Walk & Celebration of Life will be shared soon."