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Outpouring of Support for Oconomowoc Football Player

By Shelley Walcott

OCONOMOWOC - The Bartunek family says they're not giving up easily. They're doing everything they can to make sure their son Graham can play football.

"We're still shocked... don't really understand how it got this far," said Tami Bartunek.

Bartunek says she has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for her son. The 12-year-old has albinism, and needs to wear a tinted face shield while playing football. But the Oconomowoc football league won't allow it.

City officials say the tinted face shield violates safety standards and is a liability.

Graham's family found a helmet that meets safety regulations online.

"We've offered to purchase it ourselves, but it's just the fact now that the league has still, up to this point, still not allowed us to do so," said Tami.

The family has heard from a number of people, who think this is outrageous.

"We're thrilled that people are supporting us.. supporting Graham and a little surprised that it's been taken to heart so warmly by people."

Graham's story has even caught the attention of the Green Bay Packers, who are also searching for a helmet he can use.

Tami says she appreciates all the good wishes but just wants her son to be happy.

"It's a boy.. he wants to play football... as safely as possible... We have a solution... Let us implement that."

 

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