Natalie Johnson
Humor Columnist
Last September sophomore James Groenier’s life changed forever.
While walking past Webster University’s Emerson Library, a truck hit Groenier, dragging him under the vehicle for 20-30 feet. Webster University students came to Groenier’s aid, stopping the driver and pulling Groenier from under the truck.
Groenier has spent several weeks in the hospital, and received surgery on his knee recently. According to the GoFundMe page dedicated to Groenier, his injuries were so severe it took doctors weeks to be able to evaluate his condition.
Sophomore Isabelle Blake, a longtime friend of Groenier, said her and his other friends have been in constant communication with Groenier the past few months. The friends are all in a group chat.
Blake said Groenier demonstrates his appreciation for his friend’s support by sending them gifts via Amazon or ordering them food.
A benefit concert will be held in the auditorium March 10, from 7-9 p.m. All proceeds will be donated to the Groenier family to help cover the medical expenses.
The “mastermind,” as Blake put it, behind the concert was sophomore Owen Ragland.
Ragland said his mom came up with the original idea of holding a benefit, but he organized it with the help of friends and drama teacher Todd Schaefer.
The benefit will have performances by pop group Bella and Lily, WGHS a cappella groups A-Men and A-Ladies, alumni Dorian Palmer, a jazz trio, sophomores Sam Toskin’s and Christian Ragain’s one act “Cheating Doesn’t Pay,” and more. Stories will be told about the accidentb etween performance.
There will be a minute where a basket will be passed around to collect donations from the audience.
Donations to Groenier and his family can also be made on his GoFundMe page, which has raised over $7,000 of the $25,000 goal.
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