LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — A 17-year-old senior at Archer High School in Lawrenceville remains hospitalized in critical condition after collapsing following a varsity football game last week.
The rising star linebacker, OJ Appiah, who had aspirations of playing professional football, suffered a traumatic brain injury that has left him unresponsive.
“It is so heartbreaking to see him like this,” said Joanna Paradiso, Appiah’s older sister. “We have faith, and we’re praying for the best outcome, but it’s so hard.”
Appiah collapsed moments after shaking hands with the opposing team following the Archer Tigers’ victory. An assistant coach called Paradiso, alerting her that Appiah was unresponsive but still had a pulse.
“He said (OJ) completely passed out, and they were on standby to do CPR. He told me someone needed to get there as soon as possible,” Paradiso said. “My mom was at work—she’s a full-time CNA—and I was in New Jersey. It was very scary.”
Appiah was rushed to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, where doctors performed emergency surgery to relieve severe swelling by removing part of his skull.
“It’s hard for her to see her baby like that,” Paradiso said of their mother. “It’s hard for me, too,” she added, holding back tears.
Appiah had eagerly anticipated the game, seeing it as a chance to impress college recruiters.
“He was so excited,” Paradiso said. “He kept saying, ‘I’m going to play so hard. I want them to give me a scholarship for college!’ Just knowing that’s the last time I talked to him and seeing him in this position now—it really hurts.”
Doctors are cautiously optimistic about Appiah’s recovery, citing his age and physical resilience. However, the injury has ended his football career.
“The swelling was so bad that any hit to his head could cause permanent damage,” Paradiso said. “He wouldn’t be able to play football again.”
This marks Appiah’s second head injury this season; he previously suffered a concussion. The severity of this latest injury has left the Archer community stunned.
The Tigers have rallied around Appiah and his family. Coaches visited him at the hospital, and the team paid tribute by lifting his jersey, number 95, before kickoff at their game the following week.
The family is focused on Appiah’s recovery while honoring his love for the game. They have launched a fundraiser to help cover medical expenses.
To support the Appiah family, visit their online fundraiser here.