Southern wide receiver Devon Gales has movement in his upper body following successful surgery Sunday to repair several broken fractures in his neck following a hit during Saturday’s game at Georgia.

According to a statement released by Southern’s athletic department, Gales will remain at Athens Regional Hospital until he can be transported to Baton Rouge.

Gales was injured while trying to make a block on a kickoff return late in the third quarter and lay motionless on the field.

On Sunday, Georgia coach Mark Richt and the Bulldogs athletic department paid for a flight so that Gales’ parents could be with him in Athens.

“We’re trying to cover him up with as much love as we can, and let him know that we care, let him know that we’re here to help,” Richt said, via the AJC. “We’re just gonna continue to pray, and I know the Bulldog nation is behind him as well. There may come a time where there may be some needs. Not exactly sure yet. But if it does come to that I’m going to be calling all Dawgs to get involved and to help out.”

Here’s Southern’s updated statement:

The Gales family, along with Interim Athletics Director Roman Banks and the entire Southern University family, would like to thank Athens General, The University of Georgia and all of the many people who aided in his care during this unfortunate event. We are extremely thankful for all of the prayers and well wishes that Devon has received from many people nationwide.

Also, special thanks to the Georgia football program and Sports Medicine staff for all of their love and support that they have shown Devon during this difficult time.

Due to the overwhelming amount of love shown to them from everyone, the family is asking for privacy at this time. They appreciate and request your continued prayers and thoughts.

If you would like to send cards or well wishes to Devon, please send them to:

SU Athletics:
C/o Devon Gales
PO Box 9942
Baton Rouge, LA 70813