Grand Valley State head coach Dewey Newsome, who suffered a debilitating stroke on May 18th continues to make progress towards recovery.   Coach Newsome is currently in a wheelchair and without the use of his right side while undergong several hours of physical therapy daily at the Mary Freebed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids. 

Coach Newsome is aiming to return home in early may.  To do so, however, his house will undergo refritting to make it barrier-free.  This includes the installation of multiple hand rails, new entryways and steps, new flooring throughout the main level with transition areas to each room.  

 

Grand Valley alums have taken up the cause of assisting the Newsomes and embarked on a campaign - the "Dewey Newsome Fund" - to raise $15,000 by May 15th.  This will enable the house to pass inspection and allow Coach Newsome to return home. 

Donations can be sent to: Dewey Newsome Fund", Fifth Third Bank 4520 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534.  

As was explained by a representative of GVSU, if you know Dewey, you know "he would never ask for help. We have become aware that he needs it, and with your help, we intend to see he gets it."

A card listing each donor's name with no mention of individual amounts will be presented to Dewey and his family.  For additional information, donors are encouraged to call Mackenzie Mikulenas at (269) 506-1652 or email at Mackgvsu@hotmail.com or Kelly Meerman at (616) 813-8454 or email at Kellybelly519@hotmail.com.