Tim Tebow to Fly QB With Amputated Leg to Buffalo Bills Game
Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow’s actions off the football field are once again sharing center stage with his on-field heroics after news spread that he will be hosting a trip for a promising prep star, who had part of his leg amputated, to the Broncos’ game against the Buffalo Bills this weekend.
Jacob Rainey played quarterback for Woodberry Forest School in Virginia and was often compared to Tebow in style. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound player had the attention of college coaches and many others in the football community for his skills.
But Rainey suffered a severe knee injury and a severed artery when he was tackled during a scrimmage on Sept. 3. After several surgeries, part of his right leg was amputated just one week after the injury occurred, according to news reports. Despite the end of Rainey's football career, his perspective on life has been an inspiration to those who know him and to those who have been following his story.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Through his Tim Tebow Foundation, Tebow has brought a child and his or her family to each Denver Broncos game this season. He has made sure to meet with the child and his or her family at every game. Tebow is flying Rainey and his family to the Broncos game against the Bills in Buffalo, N.Y., on Saturday.
"What an amazing kid and what an amazing outlook that he has," said Tebow, as reported by The Associated Press. "I'm so proud to have the opportunity to spend time with him and his family. We're very excited about that."
Tebow said he looks forward to being able to “hang out” before and after the game with Rainey.
His foundation’s "Wish 15" program invited Kelly Faughnan, who is dealing with tumors and seizures, to come to last Sunday’s game in Denver.
"It gives her an opportunity to have a good time and gives her a little hope and puts a smile on her face," Tebow said. "Ultimately, that's what's important. As hard as it is to say it, that's more important than even winning or losing the game."
In addition to the “Wish 15” project, the Tebow Foundation announced last month that it would team with CURE International to develop a surgical facility in the Philippines. Tebow was born in the Philippines' Makati city during his parents' Baptist missionary work there.
"The Philippines have always had a special place in my heart," Tebow said in a statement. "I'm excited to be a part of this hospital that will bring healing to thousands of children who would not otherwise have access to care."
