Sachem alum and beloved teacher John Aebly is currently facing a challenging battle after being injured in a road rage incident that left him with significant spinal injuries. As he fights for recovery in the ICU, his friends and community have rallied together to support him and his family during this difficult time by launching a GoFundMe campaign.
According to the GoFundMe page, John has endured a crushed spinal cord and underwent emergency surgery on Sunday. Despite the medical intervention, he remains without feeling or movement in his legs, marking the beginning of a long and arduous recovery process. The family will require substantial resources to adapt their home to accommodate John’s needs, including making it wheelchair accessible. The GoFundMe page emphasizes the emotional and financial toll this situation has taken, stating, “Recovery is going to be a long, painful process. Any contribution that will help the family financially during this devastating time would be greatly appreciated.”
A 1992 graduate of Sachem High School, John was a dedicated three-sport athlete, excelling in football, wrestling, and lacrosse. His wrestling prowess earned him recognition as a four-year varsity member, culminating in his victory as the Suffolk County champion in 1992. He also shone at the Empire State Games, winning a gold medal in freestyle wrestling, and received three all-league selections throughout his high school career.
John’s contributions to the sport extended beyond his athletic achievements; he became a longstanding coach at Sachem, guiding countless young athletes. His efforts were recognized in 2021 when he was inducted into the Sachem Athletic Hall of Fame, a testament to his commitment to fostering talent and sportsmanship.
In addition to his coaching, John has served as an Ocean Lifeguard at Gilgo Beach in the Town of Babylon, further demonstrating his dedication to serving his community.
As John continues to face this uphill battle, his friends and supporters are committed to ensuring he receives the care he needs. The GoFundMe campaign serves as a lifeline for the Aebly family, emphasizing the power of community and the importance of standing by those in need during life’s most challenging moments. Your thoughts and prayers for John’s recovery are deeply appreciated, and any support can make a significant difference in his journey toward healing.