WJAC-TV: Prayer Service held for PSU Cheerleader

STATE COLLEGE – From cheerleaders to football players, it felt like all the student athletes showed up to the Penn State Rec Center to pray for a fellow athlete amidst her major battle.

“We’re so grateful for the support and this is why Penn State is a big family because everyone takes care of each other,” said Erik Geffken, a PSU Cheerleader and friend of Paige Raque.

Paige is a member of the Penn State Cheerleading squad and over the weekend, she fell from five stories and ended up in an Altoona Hospital with a severe brain injury. On Thursday night, her teammates were wearing yellow ribbons in their hair to show that their friend is not far from their minds. The night was full of emotion as friends and teammates talked about her.

“When people ask what Paige is like, the easiest thing to say is that she is the light of the room,” said Lauren Chapman, a member of the PSU Cheerleading team.

Event organizers met Wednesday night, they thought about writing Paige inspirational notes and messages, but then they decided to hold a prayer service. Nate Morgan was one of the organizers and thought the night would consist of maybe 30 people, but through the power of social network and word or mouth, not only did hundreds show up, but he was surprised to see media there as well.

“This is the epitome of one team. This shows that we are here for each other and we’re here for those who have fallen and we have to pick each other up,” said Morgan.

The cheerleading coaches at Penn State have set up an account to help Paige pay for her medical bills. They are always looking for donations, so if you would like to make a contribution, the checks can be made out to:

Paige Raque Recovery Fund

105 White Building

University Park, 16802

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