MIDDLEBURG, Fla — A Middleburg family is asking for prayers as their 18-year-old son, Jerry “Bubba” Elsberry III, recovers from sustained during what his parents describe as a playful accident that turned tragic.

Bubba, as his family calls him, was born in Warner Robins, Georgia, in the same hospital his father, Jerry Jr., was born. Since Bubba's accident on Oct. 25, both men he was named after have sat at his bedside at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital.

As a recent Ridgeview High School graduate, Bubba's known among friends and family for his upbeat personality, musical talent and selflessness.

Credit: Melissa Elsberry

Described as "always wanting to make people smile," Jerry's parents say Saturday's accident was completely circumstantial.

His parents say he has always been “the hel

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