A warm humid night had set in on June 9, 2019 in the Dominican capital of Santo Domingo. David Ortiz, better known to fans around the world as Big Papi, was having dinner with his friends and father at the Dial Bar and Lounge when shots rang out in the popular nightclub. Ortiz fell to the floor, having a bullet go through his back, into his stomach, and out his abdomen. Ambulances were immediately called as the shooter was apprehended, being beaten by bystanders and other Club Security. However, it was clear that Ortiz was in danger almost instantaneously.
Ortiz was sent to the hospital in Santo Domingo, then airlifted via airplane to Boston the next day. While Ortiz did survive the incident, there was damage to numerous organs, including his gallbladder, liver, and intestines, causing much to be removed. Fans around the world saw this news and were in shock as many knew of Ortiz’s significance to the world through his achievements in the MLB. He was not only a 3x World Series Champion, but, once hit 56 homeruns in a season, a Red Sox franchise record, was the 2013 World Series MVP, and too many other accolades to note. But Ortiz’s admirers whether they wear jeans or pinstripe, prayed for him and hoped for a stable return.
David Ortiz is a respected and beloved figure, not for just his work on the playing field, but off of it. After the Boston Marathon Attacks in 2013, Ortiz bellowed out a speech at Fenway Park to the fans still recovering just days later. Ortiz healed all wounds, united a city, and called out all terrorism throughout the world by saying a few words. “This is our F***ing City! And nobody is gonna dictate our Freedom! Stay Strong, Thank You!” Well, it is time for the fans to help Ortiz heal from his wounds. He will stay Strong, nobody will dictate how he recovers from this, because he is a Great Man and a Great leader for all who have suffered.
The Art of Sports 