Boy Scouts Troop 519 and local contractor Jack McHugh help build a porch and ramp for Jemil Evans. Photo: Suzanne Sausville/WBZ NewsRadio
WOBURN, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Local Boy Scouts were busy this weekend, helping other volunteers build a deck and a wheelchair ramp at the home of a former scout who was paralyzed from the neck down last month.
On June 12th, 19-year-old Jemil Evans was accidentally shot in the neck by a friend. Evans is coming home from Spaulding Hospital on September 9th, and thanks to the community effort his home will be wheelchair accessible.
Peter Lochrie from Boy Scouts 519 was among those who turned out. He said it’s a busy time of year with school starting up, but they’re all honored to participate.
“Especially in this case since it’s a Woburn kid, a Woburn scout, it really did hit home with all of us,” said Lochrie.
Boy scouts from the Spirit of Adventure Council were helped on Saturday by local contractor Jack McHugh, and Lowe’s provided a discount on the construction material.
Mary Evans, Jemil’s grandmother, said she’s overwhelmed.
“People are so kind and so generous,” she said. “I’m really grateful, and just shocked. The goodness in people is just amazing.”
Mary Evans said Jemil is doing well ahead of his homecoming in two weeks.
“He tells us it’s going to be okay. ‘It’s going to be okay, you guys, don’t worry.’ 19-year-old kid is told he’s going to be paralyzed from the neck down. He’s just amazing, his attitude, I’m so proud of him. I’m so proud of him. He’s bringing out the best in everybody," she said.
WBZ’s Suzanne Sausville (@wbzSausville) has more:
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Written by Madison Rogers