Mason Martin

Injured Karns City Area Jr./Sr. High School quarterback Mason Martin successfully received a new shunt in his brain Thursday, Nov. 30, according to his father, Denny.

Denny shared on Facebook that Mason is “recovering and resting comfortably” following the surgery.

“If all goes well, he could be ready to return to rehab early next week,” he wrote.

Earlier this month, Mason tested positive for meningitis. This caused him to be moved from Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, where he had begun rehabilitation from cranial flap surgery, back to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital.

Once back at UPMC, Denny shared that Mason had to be free from infection before the shunt replacement could commence on Thursday.

Mason is recovering from injuries he suffered during the football game Sept. 1. He collapsed during the third quarter of Karns City’s game against Redbank Valley and was diagnosed with a brain bleed and collapsed lung.

“I want to thank everyone for the prayers and well wishes,” Denny wrote in Thursday’s update. “This last week has been one of the toughest for me. During the difficult moments I go through and read all the prayers and comments on Mason Strong and all the messages I have received. They always fire me up and give me much needed strength.”

Denny added that he’s certain Mason appreciates all the messages as well.

“Thank you for fighting along with us,” he wrote.