A source of support during tragedies, it is during times of crisis that the term family often finds a broader meaning.
"She's a big part of our Lehi softball family... we really need her back," said Abbie Padilla, a 17-year-old second baseman for the two time defending state champion Lehi Softball team. Abbie, along with teammates and coaches are rallying to show their support for assistant coach Carla Grow, in a medically induced coma after a lightning strike on Sunday.
"Just tell everybody to pray for the best and hope for the best for Carla," said head coach Tim Kennedy, standing on the infield of the softball diamond he credits Carla with building. Carla's handprints is cast permanently in the hardened cement of one dugout.
“We don’t know exactly how she’s doing, she’s sedated, she’s on a respirator and they say they’re going to keep her in this state for some time before they try to wake her up," said Lee Caldwell, Carla Grow's bishop, acting as a family spokesman.
The bolt struck a tree in Grow's backyard during a family gathering Sunday afternoon. Several family members felt the shock, but Grow took the worst of the impact. She went into cardiac arrest. Her friend and fellow coach Tim Kennedy says two of her family members started CPR. Since then, she's been in the ICU, fighting for her life.
"When you get scared of losing someone you realize how much you really care for them and I'd love to tell her how much she's impacted me," said Emme Cluff an outfielder on the team.
The impact Carla Grow has had on the young athletes goes beyond the field of competition. Players describe life lessons, like staying positive and caring for your friends.
Two lessons they continue to practice, while praying for Coach Carla Grow.
AGo Fund Me page has been created to help Grow.
Related: Fire Chief speaks about reviving woman struck by lightning
