(Host) Vermont snowboarder Kevin Pearce remains in critical but stable condition at a Utah hospital.
The 22-year-old half-pipe champion sustained a serious traumatic brain injury Thursday while training for an Olympic qualifying competition.
VPR’s Susan Keese has more.
(Keese) Pearce, who grew up in Norwich, has been considered a favorite for a spot on the U.S. Olympic snowboard team.
In an interview with VPR last spring, he talked about his acrobatic sport and the joys of being airborne – something for which Pearce is especially well-known.
(Pearce) "It feels pretty cool. I like going high into the air and I think that’s kind of what it’s all about… trying to go bigger and higher and faster It’s fun."
(Keese) Pearce had already experienced injuries, though none as serious as the current one.
(Pearce) "I think that’s part of the sport and you’ve got to take it for what it is and, you know, keep truckin’."
(Keese) Pearce is currently being sedated while doctors monitor the pressure on his brain.
His brother, Jake, has started a Facebook page where thousands of well-wishers have posted comments.
A message from his parents to Pearce’s fans says, "Kevin is the most extraordinary and determined son any two parents could hope for and it is wonderful to see how loved he is."
Pearce is the son of Pia and Simon Pearce, the Vermont glass blower.
For VPR News, I’m Susan Keese