COWETA, Okla. — One Coweta teenager is in critical condition after a car wreck late Saturday night.
Cage Stidham is at St. Francis and doctors are treating him for multiple fractures and head injuries. Thursday evening, friends and family gathered at the Coweta football field for a prayer vigil.
Coweta neighbors wanted to pack the field for Stidham, and they did. Hundreds of neighbors showed up on Thursday night to honor the teen.
2 News met three people in his life, and each of them said, he was always around. His football coach, Tim Harper, saw it during Cage’s injury-ridden senior year.
"He was here for every practice, even though he couldn’t play. His senior year, he couldn’t play," Harper said, "He was here for every practice ... never late, always cheering him on the sidelines. Whether they were winning or losing, and they went 11-1, so they were pretty good."
Cage’s friend, Justis Grammar, looked up to him.
"Him just being there brought joy to everyone and gave everyone motivation. He gave you a reason to look forward to being there," Grammar said.
A short conversation at practice inspired Justis for the rest of the year.
"I was like, 'Bro, today sucks,' He was like, 'Look at me, I’m sitting over here in a cast and everything.' He just immediately made me start laughing. I thought you’re over here not being able to play the sport that you love, so I’m gonna go out and play for you," Grammar said.
Cage used his talents to help people outside of football, too. He volunteered for Wagoner County Emergency Management.
Matt Rose always noticed his presence.
"He’s a guy that shows up during training days shows up even when it’s not training days," Rose said. "Hanging out, he’ll participate and clean up. He’s just a guy that wants to give back."
His family said the best way to give back to Stidham is by "Clicking it for Cade." They encourage everyone to wear a seat belt, no matter what.
2 News learned BancFirst has an account open for the Stidham family. Those interested can donate at any BancFirst branch just by mentioning the Stidhams.
For now, visitors are not allowed at St. Francis, as they are trying to give Stidham the best chance to rest and heal.
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