Related links

HIGHLAND, Ohio - Highland High School student Kory Wiita made his first public appearance Friday, since fracturing his spine during a football play in October.

Wiita surprised a crowd of thousands at Friday night's basketball game against Cloverleaf, which doubled as a fundraiser.

The crowd gave him a standing ovation as friends and teammates rushed to his side with hugs and kind words.

"It was very uplifting to see him out and doing well, and it just lifted the spirits of a lot of people," explains Laura Sisamis.

For months, the Highland community has rallied for Wiita, holding numerous fundraisers in his honor.

"It is a very tight knit community. The community is like a big family," Sisamis says.

Many were so touched by Wiita's appearance Friday, that dozens of people posted messages about it on his website Saturday, sending prayers and describing his inspiration.

"Everyone was teary-eyed and I don't see how you could not be," says former Highland Athletic Director Fred Pollock. "We've all been talking about it and trying to do what we can and we know it's a tough situation, but to actually see him here and see some progress really makes it worthwhile."

Wiita is paralyzed from the chest down, but he and his family have not given up hope. They continue to fight through fundraising and education.

*CLICK HERE TO LEAVE KORY A MESSAGE*