Kentucky gymnast Shelby Hilton’s life was turned upside down after a fall on floor during a competition at the University of Florida. Tests revealed Hilton suffered no injuries from her fall, but an MRI showed four small brain lesions that were later diagnosed as medulloblastoma, a fast-growing, high-grade brain tumor (cancer). 

 

Hilton, originally from St. Petersburg, FL, has remained with her family in Florida for treatment. She is now undergoing Proton Radiation Therapy five days a week in Jacksonville, Florida and in June she will undergo four months of Chemotherapy at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital. 

 

Hilton has created a Go Fund Me page to help raise money to pay for her medical bills. VISIT HER SITE AND DONATE HERE.

Kentucky gymnastics released a statement from head coach Tim Garrison, "Shelby is an amazing person and a fantastic athlete who has had undeniable impact on our program. She is an optimistic and positive person by nature which will serve her well through this difficult time. Though we will miss Shelby during her treatment, our thoughts and continued prayers are with her and her family. I know our fans will join us in sending their support, but we would also like to ask that Shelby's privacy be respected."

Hilton competed in each of UK's first eight meets this season on vault and floor. She recorded a season-high 9.850 on vault on Feb. 20 in a win over Arkansas and tied it a week later at Florida. On floor, Hilton's season-best of 9.825 came on Jan. 30 vs. Alabama and again a week later in UK's victory at Missouri.

Georgia Gymnastics and the SEC created a video message for Hilton which you can watch below: