For those that don't have Facebook.
It's one of America's most inspirational stories, and it comes to us today from Trussville, Alabama.
It's the story about an 18-year-old high school senior signing his college baseball letter of intent on National Signing Day.
17 months after he climbed back from the brink.
14 years after he delivered his promise.
Grayson Pope was born in Knoxville, Tennessee- he was 4 years old when his Little League team visited the University Of Tennessee baseball complex.
Grayson was moved by the site and made his proclamation to his parents David and Jamie right there on the spot.
"I'm gonna play college baseball right here," said the 4-year-old.
Grayson was determined to make his promise come true.
It's been 17 months since the huge tree fell on the golf cart.
Grayson Pope, a star outfielder with the Hewitt-Trussville High School (AL) baseball team was golfing with some buddies.
Grayson suffered a traumatic brain injury.
In June of 2023, Grayson wasn't concerned with baseball, but rather concerned with surviving.
Grayson Pope was determined to live- he was determined that some day he would play baseball for the Vols.
Grayson's 17-month journey has seen highs and lows, surgeries and rehab, physical therapy and prayers.
He's taken baby steps learning to walk again, he's taken months to move again, he's taken so much time to learn to talk again.
They have Prayed 4 Gray in Trussville, as teammates and coaches and family and friends have helped Grayson climb back.
I talked with Grayson today, and his voice sounded strong- his mom Jamie tells me her son's gate is stronger- Gray is even doing some jogging.
Grayson is off his feeding tube and his trach, he's dressing and feeding himself, and he's driving himself to school.
Grayson no longer needs a teacher's aide, he changes classes with other students and he's a straight A student.
Grayson Pope is on his way back.
America's Inspiration proudly picked up the pen at this morning's Signing Day ceremony at the high school.
Grayson had committed to Tennessee before the accident, but Tennessee baseball coach Tony Vitello made good on his promise that Grayson Pope would be a part of the team.
Grayson signed his letter of intent.
Grayson is not ready to play baseball at this point, but he's keenly aware of how far he has come.
He also knows how far he has to go.
I asked Grayson if his plan is to someday play baseball for the Vols, even of it takes 4 years.
"Absolutely- 100 percent," said Grayson. "It's going to be a long, tough road, but I WILL play college baseball."
Grayson sounded fired up.
Over the next few months, Grayson Pope will continue to work on his vision, his balance and his stamina.
He will take part in high school spring practice, tossing the baseball, taking some batting practice- just being close to the sport her loves.
Next summer, Grayson will head to college, live in a dorm and work on making his promise come true.
"He's convinced that some day he will play baseball again," said mom Jamie.
'I sure am," added America’s Inspiration.
"100 percent."
*Be sure to congratulate Grayson, his parents David and Jamie and his sister Emma. It's been quite a journey for the family, and they would be grateful to read your comments.
for all will continue.
. Grayson Pope has signed to play baseball at the University of Tennessee, I'm not over here crying. Unbelievable story. God is Good!
