Photographer Fractured Spine In Fall From Super Bowl Parade Stage

Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams were soaking in the sights. On a beautiful L.A. day, the team was met by legions of fans for a parade to celebrate their victory in Super Bowl LVI. At one point, Stafford was caught on camera walking away from a terrible accident.

NFL photo editor Kelly Smiley was on stage documenting the day’s events. She was adjusting some equipment when she took a scary fall off the stage. Matthew Stafford made a surprised face before casually walking away, leaving his wife Kelly Stafford to look on in shock.

Initial reports stated that Smiley was alright after the spill. Kelly didn’t believe she had suffered any serious injuries other than some damaged equipment. A later tweet from the emergency room revealed that she fractured her spine.

“That’s me 😰. Waiting at the ER for X-ray results. Both my cameras broke but I’m ok.”

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“Unfortunately I fractured my spine”

A GoFundMe was set up by a close friend of Kelly Smiley to help raise money for her medical expenses and to replace the damaged camera gear. The fundraiser is hoping to reach a goal of $30,000. Thus far just over $1500 has been raised.

Matthew Stafford’s curious reaction has caused him to receive criticism from fans online. It could be the case that Stafford simply didn’t think Kelly Smiley was injured. An examination at the emergency room showed otherwise. Get well soon, Kelly!

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