10/05/2026
For Zavier Johnson, sports like football, basketball, and baseball have always been a huge part of his world. As the Foster Middle School quarterback, he was just under two minutes away from halftime when a hard hit during a football game suddenly brought that world to a halt.
His mother, Dominique, says she had never seen her son in so much pain. As a mother, watching her child hurt so badly was heartbreaking. Her heart shattered as she stood there, but before she could even process what was happening, the athletic trainers quickly rushed to Zavier’s side. All Dominique could do was pray as they assessed his injury and worked to get him the care he needed.
Zavier was rushed to the emergency room, where doctors confirmed a significant fracture to his elbow. He was then prepared for surgery, where Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Trevor Wait successfully reconstructed the elbow and repaired the broken bone fragment.
But Dr. Wait did more than repair Zavier’s elbow.
Through his compassion and genuine approach to caring for Zavier, Dr. Wait helped him find moments of comfort during an experience filled with fear, pain, and uncertainty. He helped Zavier smile, talk, and feel a little less afraid during an incredibly difficult time. For Dominique, that meant the world.
After spending several days in the hospital, Zavier was discharged and is now continuing his recovery at home through physical rehabilitation, surrounded by the love and support of his family and friends.
Today, Dominique’s focus is helping her son understand that this injury does not mark the end of his journey. His world of sports may look different for a while, but she continues to remind him that God still has a plan for his life and for his future.
She is incredibly grateful to the entire medical and athletic staff who helped Zavier navigate such a frightening injury, as well as everyone who has offered prayers, support, encouragement, and love throughout his recovery.
As the fall sports season continues, Dominique encourages other parents who may find themselves facing a terrifying injury with their child to seek God for guidance and strength. She also reminds parents to reassure their children that whatever they are feeling is valid—that their fear, frustration, and uncertainty are seen, heard, and understood.
Most of all, she is grateful for the people on the sidelines who acted quickly, cared deeply, and helped ensure that Zavier received the medical attention he needed when every second mattered.
This may be a pause in Zavier’s sports journey, but it is not the end of his story. Dominique believes God is still writing that story—and she trusts that there is so much more ahead for her son.
