We received this letter from Tucker’s family. We’d like to share it here because the community has been such a big part of the success of Tucker Tuesday. The support you’ve given is limitless and so appreciated.
“To the staff and students of West Central,
I am sending a message to the amazing staff and students of West Central on behalf of the family of Tucker Smith. My name is Tara and I am Tuckers older sister as well as a graduate of West Central. As you know my little brother Tucker was hospitalized recently with a very serious condition. During his stay at Avera first in the ICU then in a recovery ward the support that we received from all of you was amazing. I cannot express in words the gratitude that we felt every time someone visited, called, texted or even left a message on Facebook.
One of the nurses said it best when she said the support you give is just as good, if not better medicine than anything that he could receive in the hospital. I don’t believe it was a coincidence that as his mood and spirits were lifted by you that his health improved also. It is a terrifying experience to watch helpless as someone you love suffers in pain. It was an overwhelming experience to witness the love and support that so many people expressed for my brother. It made me more proud than I have ever been to be a part of the West Central community.
As you know Tuckers life long dream of playing college football is no longer a reality. What you have done today to ensure his future leaves us me at a loss for words. All I can say is Thank You. Thank you for taking my brother in your arms and keeping him in your prayers. Thank you for coming to the hospital during the hardest times. Thank you for never letting him forget how loved he really is. Thank you for reminding all of us what it means to be a part of the West Central family and what it means to be a Trojan.
Sincerely,
Tara Smith”
