Whitten, a 15-year-old rising sophomore and a three-sport athlete, was seriously injured in a swimming accident over the weekend.
LaFayette principal Mike Culberson said Whitten has undergone surgery and while he does have some use of his arms, he could be facing permanent paralysis from the chest down.
News of the accident spread quickly Saturday night over Facebook as friends, family members, and others in the community sent encouraging messages to Whitten and his family and called on each other for prayer and support.
"It's been a solemn and sad couple of days," Culberson said. "But the Whitten family has been trying to remain as positive as possible, and there has been a large outpouring of support from the community, which I'm very proud to see."
The ceremony, which will be held at Jack King Stadium on the school's campus, will include guest speakers and singers. Donations will be taken at the conclusion of the night with all the money raised going directly to the Whitten family.
Culberson said that Whitten was "the kind of young man that any father would want dating his teenage daughter."
"Austin is a great, young Christian man, an incredible athlete, and a wonderful student," he said. "He's the kind of kid that works hard, has a great attitude, and comes from a great family. You just hate to see this happen to anyone, especially to a child. I've known Austin since he was in the sixth grade. He's anlways made me proud, whether it was in the classroom or on the field, and I'm sure he's going to continue to make us all proud."
An account has been set up at The Bank of LaFayette for Whitten. The account is open to anyone wishing to make a donation to the Whitten family to help offset the costs of medical expenses, travel money, and other needs.
In addition, the LaFayette High School JROTC will hold a car wash and bake sale to benefit the Whitten family on Saturday, June 23 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at O’Reilly Auto Parts on North Main Street in LaFayette. All donations will be accepted.
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