BUCKNER, Ky. — On Nov. 9, 2023, the University of Virginia football team came to L&N Stadium to play the University of Louisville Cardinals and Perris Jones’ life changed forever.

What You Need To Know

  •  Former University of Virginia running back Perris Jones suffered a serious spinal injury in at game at Louisville on Nov. 9, 2023

  •  He was treated at UofL Hospital and Frazier Rehab and spent almost three weeks in Louisville

  •  Buckner Elementary students sent Jones hundreds of cards and well wishes

  • Jones returned to Kentucky to surprise the students and thank them and tell them how much their support meant to him

Late in the third quarter, Jones caught a 7-yard pass and fumbled after being hit on his helmet by Cardinals’ safety Cam’Ron Kelly and several other Cardinals.

L&N Stadium fell silent as Virginia medical personnel quickly rushed over with a flat board and a cart quickly entered the area. Players from both teams kneeled, and some Cavaliers prayed while Jones was treated. He was lifted onto the cart with his head area wrapped. Fans applauded as he was taken from the field to UofL Hospital.

Virginia running back Perris Jones (2) is taken off the field following an injury during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Louisville in Louisville, Ky., Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)

Jones suffered a severe spinal cord injury and underwent surgery the day after the game. Jones spent almost three weeks in recovery at UofL Hospital and Frazier Rehabilitation Institute, far from home. He was discharged on Nov. 28, 2023.

Friday, Jones returned to Kentucky and made a special visit to Buckner Elementary in Oldham County. He wanted to thank students for sending him hundreds of cards during his recovery.

Jones said he read every card. 

“There was an overwhelming amount of ‘you can do anything,’ you can do it,’ ‘don’t quit.’ It was just a lot of motivation. For kids this young to be able to say that.... it’s very empowering," said Jones. 

Jones surprised students during their annual giving tree event.

Students donated items to the Red Cross and heard stories about the importance of caring and compassion.

Jones wanted to students to know that kindness can have monumental effects.

He said, “[I] Think this will probably be one of the best days of my life. Honestly.“

The 25-year-old expressed the importance of being thankful this holiday season. Louisville has become a very important place to him. 

“We are family now. Like I said in the gym, we are tied and forever connected. Buckner is home. Louisville is home,” said Jones. 

Jones encouraged the students to continue showing kindness and wanted to remind them to be thankful for every moment this holiday season.

Related Stories