Education

Boy, 12, fighting for his life; family urges more attention in heat

By Marlon A. Walker
July 25, 2016

The family of a 12-year-old fighting for his life after collapsing during an outdoor youth football practice says coaches should be more mindful of the dangers their charges face.

Johnny Tolbert Jr. is on life support at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston after having a seizure during youth football practice July 14 with the Welcome All Park Athletic Association youth league. Doctors tell the family Johnny Junior, as he's called, may not survive. A relative has started a GoFundMe page to assist the family with medical costs.

Area coaches follow rules set by the Georgia High School Association, which limit activity in temperatures past 82 degrees.

About the Author

Marlon A. Walker is an education reporter covering DeKalb County.

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