NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — Former New York Mets third baseman Howard Johnson is asking for help for his grandson.
In a series of tweets, Johnson, who won a World Series title with the Mets in 1986, revealed that his nearly 2-year-old grandson, Tanner, was involved in a lawnmower accident Tuesday that left the toddler seriously injured.
"Two days ago my youngest grandson was involved in a ugly accident with a riding mower," Johnson tweeted Thursday. "He was accidentally in the path of the mower as it was in reverse and my son did not see him and as a result he was run over partially."
Johnson said Tanner's left foot was partially severed after it got caught in the blade.
The boy was rushed to the hospital and will require several surgeries. He is reportedly being treated at a children's hospital in Nashville.
"The severed portion of his foot was recovered but is unable to be replanted," Johnson said. "I was with my son when he arrived via ambulance and saw Tanner's foot and I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. The guilt that my son feels is overwhelming. It’s the worst fear come true and we have been praying non stop for Tanner and the family for God’s peace and healing hands."
Johnson shared a video of Tanner seemingly in good spirits as he was being pulled around in a red wagon at the hospital.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover Tanner's medical expenses.
"The family is unprepared for the emotional toll and also the financial toll this will involve," Johnson wrote. "Any help is appreciated for Tanner. We’ve set an ambitious goal yet we know that won’t cover the costs associated with the accident…it’s going to be a long road ahead BUT a successful one."
At last check, more than $30,000 had been raised.