The first post I noted on Facebook today was from Troy Crowser, who posted a request for prayers for friend and fellow saddle bronc rider Chuck Schmidt.

An update came through friends via Cole Elshere’s page, which reported early Saturday morning that Schmidt suffered two broken vertebras in his neck, the C6 and C7.

For those of the praying nature, I join those in asking for your heeling help. Schmidt, 25, is one of the best young bronc riders in the game. He qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in 2011 and has won titles in Dodge City, Kan.; Billings, Mont.; Sheridan, Wyo.; just to name a few.

This from whomever posted on Elshere’s Facebook page: “Cole is with him and asking for a million prayers.”

I’m asking for more.

UPDATE FROM ELSHERE’S FACEBOOK PAGE, 10:25 a.m. Central Saturday, Aug. 31: “Chuck has full use if his arms and legs!! He is going into surgery at 5 … please keep the prayers coming!”