Faith, Family And Healing: Paul Ragan’s Journey Back To The Field

At 16, Paul Ragan suffered a catastrophic arm injury.

With his life revolving around football and his father as coach at Seeger Memorial Junior-Senior High School in West Lebanon, Ind., he was devastated.

The injury occurred in April 2023 when Ragan’s arm popped out of its socket while exercising. Jennifer Walters-Smith, ATC, the Franciscan athletic trainer for his team, evaluated the injury and when it started to turn purple and go numb, referred him to more advanced care.

Now years later with the help of a Franciscan athletic trainer, occupational therapist and God, he found a path to healing and shares his story.

Franciscan Health Occupational Therapy Steps In

After the injury Ragan was quickly referred to Franciscan Health occupational therapist Angela Polmateer, OTR, CHT, who immediately knew the situation was worse than expected.

An electromyography (EMG) showed severe nerve damage. Ragan was told there was no nerve life and quickly lost all function and feeling in his arm, except for constant nerve pain.

“It felt like my arm was burning from the inside out,” he said.

Polmateer coordinated his care plan, working closely with Walters-Smith and despite not knowing if he’d ever regain function, Ragan never missed a treatment in the trainer’s room, continued conditioning with his team and started practicing as a placekicker to make it back on the field.

Walters-Smith was so impressed, she nominated him for a courage award.

A Father’s Pride And A Son’s Determination

TJ Ragan, his father and coach, knew more than anyone what drove him.

“Paul loves his team and teammates, so it was really cool to see him try to be in a position to help his team,” his Dad said.

Months later, the younger Ragan shared with his family how God had grown in him.

“My family prayed over me,” he said. “I felt a sensation in my shoulder for the first time in five months.”

Soon he had full shoulder movement and, in a week, his hand and wrist as well. He started in a game as a defensive end two weeks later.

“We are so grateful for all the care we experienced, especially for Jen and Angela,” the elder Ragan said. “They are incredible people and the best at what they do.”

Power of Faith And Teamwork

While Franciscan’s collaborative and hands-on care meant the world to him and his family, Ragan’s resolve and trust in God made all the difference.

“He knew that his injury could be permanent in nature, and he was more focused on the solution than the problem,” Walters-Smith said. “His story is a great lesson in using hard work, determination and a positive mindset to overcome adversity.”