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Sharing an update on him. Thoughts and Prayers for a speedy recovery. We wanted to let everyone know that Parker is now home resting from surgery. Thank you for all of the prayers and well wishes from those of you that were aware of his situation. I intentionally have not posted about this, as this has been a very emotional situation for all of us. For our friends and family who were not aware, for the past 8 months Parker has been battling a debilitating condition with his hands that has affected his ability to perform daily tasks, including his passion to wrestle. Parker’s hands would turn purple and go numb during activity, and would become extremely painful. He loses all grip strength and the ability to squeeze his hands. We were so lucky that after 4 months of numerous tests with cardiologists, rheumatologists, and hand surgeons, Parker was finally able to get a clear diagnosis from one of the top Vascular Surgeons in the country for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Parker was confirmed to have both bi-lateral Venous and Neurogenic TOS. Neurogenic TOS is caused by compression of the brachial plexus nerve roots (C5 to T1) within the scalene triangle, the space above the collarbone where the two scalene muscles come down from the neck and attach to the first rib. This was causing the pain and numbness. Venous TOS is caused by subclavian vein compression between the clavicle and first rib. This was causing discoloration and swelling. We guess Parker hit the jackpot, not only having both types, but also being bilateral. Although this is an extremely rare condition, it is somewhat common among MLB pitchers, competitive swimmers, and gymnasts. Yesterday morning Parker underwent successful surgery on the right side of his body first. They made an incision above the clavicle to completely remove his first rib and the two scalene muscles that were attached to it. Through a small second & third incisions below the collarbone, they also released the tendon of the pectoralis minor muscle and opened the space all the way through the thoracic outlet for the brachial plexus nerves. We are happy to say that Parker has just been released to come home. Within minutes of waking up, he couldn’t believe how “normal” he said his right hand felt. We will not know how greatly affected the left side is and or damaged for approximately 6-8 weeks. At that time, a decision will be made by the surgeons to potentially go in and repeat the exact same surgery. Luckily for Parker he did not have any damage to his subclavian veins and no evidence of a blood clot. The rehabilitation is a difficult one, and Parker is looking at the possibility of having to do it twice. But if there is anyone out there who can do it, we all know that it is Parker. In true Parker fashion, he asked to keep his “rib” so that he can make a chain out of it : ) We do not know what the near future holds competitively for our son, but we do know that with Gods strength and Parker’s determination, he will come back from this better than ever. Thank you for everyone’s prayers. Below Parker wanted to share with everyone his rib.

Weight is not a protected class. Unlike religion, sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, race, and so on. Here is a link to 1 of dozens of articles you can find by simply googling "is weight a protected class." The only state currently a lawsuit could be issued and won is Michigan. It would be an extremely costly difficult lawsuit to win. A judge, if they are good, won't (or shouldn't) render a judgment based feeling or emotion and adhere to Title VII policies. For your son in particular given the fact they are 6'7'' and 325 that is unfortunate - at that height and weight it is highly unlikely they have an unhealthy BMI. He is also in a rare category since only 1% of the U.S. population exceeds 6'4" in height (source) and only 3.8% of the total U.S. population weighs more than 300lbs. Your son seems to be the rare athlete that would qualify for NFL or NBA type body. But for most others that is not a healthy weight. Per the National Health Institute it results in multiple issues like cardiovascular, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and so on.

What a fantastic human being! I wish I had the opportunity to be around him more other than just in passing at meets and events. One of the most genuine people I’ve had the opportunity to meet through wrestling.

I have enjoyed all I my interactions across the mat, walking down the hall, and especially the seeding meetings. Larry will always be remembered and talked about with a smile for years to come! Thanks for the great memories. Randy

Great read. GREAT coach! Enjoy retirement coach!

Congrats coach Mattingly!!! Wonderful person.

Congratulations Coach. Thank you for helping develop great men!