A CLOSE-KNIT FAMILY faced life-altering challenges yet found strength and resilience through community support. Matthew Ratcliffe, a young man with a promising football career ahead, encountered a devastating accident that would change the course of his life. However, his story is not just one of struggle; it’s proof of the power of prayer, faith, unity, and even strangers.
Born and raised in Franklin County, Matthew comes from a tight-knit community. His parents, BJ and Andrea, who also hail from the area, ran a small business before BJ was involved in an accident. They actively supported local initiatives, schools, and other community projects. Life was full, with Matthew thriving in his football career and his family deeply ingrained in their community.
The turning point came with the car accident that altered Matthew’s trajectory. Instead of retreating, the Ratcliffe family embraced their new reality, turning challenges into opportunities for community engagement.
After the accident, the center of the family’s focus was on rallying support for his recovery, and the community quickly responded.
In addition to the immense support he receives from his parents, Matthew’s journey is enriched by the strong bond he shares with his sister, Morgan. She visits him weekly, encouraging and supporting him, which plays a significant role in his progression.
One significant event that showcased the community’s endearing support was a fundraiser organized by Grace and Mercy Church, illustrating the community’s overwhelming response. The outpouring of love, cards, and financial support helped with immediate needs and facilitated crucial medical accommodations. With generous donations, the Ratcliffe family constructed a ramp at their home and acquired a specialized lift to ease Matthew’s mobility.
Another notable event that underscored the community’s support was the “Touchdowns Against Cancer” car show hosted by Russell Barnett. The Ratcliffes actively participated, with Matthew being honored during the event. The local football team presented him with a T-shirt signed by players and coaches, recognizing his long-standing connection with Franklin County football.
A specific participant, honored with the Matthew Ratcliffe award for her family’s vintage car, may not have a personal connection to the Ratcliffes, but she shared her emotional connection to their story.
“This is a great family. They have a lot of stuff on their plate, and the fact that they can make an effort to help other charitable organizations when they’ve got so much on their plate themselves just really blew me away,” she said.
Witnessing Matthew rise from his wheelchair to present her family with the award was inspirational for many, including numerous attendees.
“I was in medical research and development for seven years. I realized immediately, without knowing this young man’s story, what an amazing thing it was for him to stand up.”
The recent senior night at the football game provided a glimpse into the emotional journey of the Ratcliffe family. Matthew, a dedicated member of the football team before the accident, received a heartfelt tribute from his peers. Despite the challenges, he remains an integral part of the team, with coaches even extending an invitation for him to join as a coach next year.
The Ratcliffes, though emotionally impacted by the milestones their son was missing, remain hopeful. Matthew’s involvement in football had left an indelible mark on his life, and the community’s continued support became a source of encouragement.
Even through adversity, the community continues to stand by the Ratcliffe family. Their unwavering dedication to Matthew’s recovery is demonstrated through financial support, attending football games, providing encouragement, and acknowledging important milestones, such as Senior Night.
“The community has been very supportive to us through this entire ordeal. With the fundraiser that the church had, we had a tremendous turnout. It was very humbling. Different churches have reached out. There was one church that made him a blanket and sent it to us, and that’s the blanket that he used in the hospital because we were in the hospital for six months,” Andrea said.
Despite the formidable challenges, a glimmer of optimism remains that he may rekindle his football career. Colleges have expressed interest, and the family dreams of raising awareness about traumatic brain injuries, offering guidance to those in similar situations.
Community involvement remains a crucial aspect of their journey. The Ratcliffes invite the community to stay connected through their Facebook page, where updates on Matthew’s progress, events, and ways to contribute are shared regularly. GN