MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia cornerback Garnett Hollis Jr. is ready to make an impact both on and off the field this season.
Hollis Jr., who is expected to be one of WVU’s top defensemen, has dedicated his performance on the field to supporting a local family.
Maddox Potter is a 16-year-old from West Virginia. He was diagnosed with Stage IV rhabdomyosarcoma last December.
“I just heard your story and it kind of touched me because there are members in my family who have had cancer,” said Hollis Jr. Potter said in a video call that was posted on social media.
Hollis Jr. dedicates every tackle and ball win this season to Potter. He is asking his fans to make a donation to raise money for the Potter family.
According to the fundraising page, monetary pledges will be converted into donations on a monthly basis throughout the season. For example, if Hollis Jr. makes 10 tackles and 1 turnover in September, a $10 pledge will become a $110 donation.
“I just know that you go through a lot of things that other people don’t go through every day and that you are as strong as you are right now. I dedicate every tackle and every ball gain that I make this season to that goal. All of that will help you raise money so that you can win this fight. I know you go through a lot so I’m just here to help you in any way I can, basically.”
Garnett Hollis Jr. to Maddox Potter
Hollis Jr. posted the video and fundraiser information Saturday night. In less than 24 hours, fans donated more than $2,200 and sent messages of encouragement to Potter.
According to the fundraising page, Potter and his family are preparing for another two-week stay in Cincinnati, where Maddox will receive weekly treatment and care at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.
Fans who would like to donate and learn more about Potter can visit the Champraise fundraising page.
