PHILADELPHIA, PA (KYW/CNN/CNN Newsource/WKRC) – A 10-year-old boy honored at a 76ers game on Friday continues to recover from injuries sustained in a medical jet crash last year.
Ramesses Vazquez-Viana, who suffered burns over more than 90% of his body, rang the ceremonial bell before the game. This event took place at the Wells Fargo Center, where his story of resilience was shared with the audience.
Authorities confirmed that Ramesses has undergone over 40 surgeries since the crash, which occurred in Northeast Philadelphia nearly a year ago. He has recently returned to school part time.
In a statement to KYW, a family member expressed gratitude for community support, saying, “It feels amazing. Everybody has shown their love in a unique way. It's overwhelming.”
David Kelleher, owner of David Dodge, supported the family by gifting them a minivan and providing a courtside experience for the game. “What Ramesses has done and the way he's fought through this, this is Philadelphia,” Kelleher said.
Ramesses acknowledged feeling nervous about ringing the bell but shared that he was excited for the game and hoped for a 76ers win. After practicing backstage with his mother, he received a standing ovation from the crowd, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.