Jesse Ertz thanks Kansas State family for supporting his sister

Kansas State quarterback Jesse Ertz took to social media Tuesday to thank his “KSU family” for supporting his sister during a trying time.

Ertz’s sister, Lydia Gatton, was diagnosed with a brain tumor on her frontal lobe last week. The tumor was discovered Wednesday and Ertz played with his sister on his mind against Oklahoma State, rushing for 153 yards and three touchdowns in a 43-37 loss.

Gatton has undergone surgery, and Ertz expressed optimism she is ready to “begin the next steps of her journey.” He also wrote: “She is strong and we have no doubts she will win.”

A gofundmepage page created to help Gatton pay for medical expenses related to her treatment had raised nearly $12,000 as of Tuesday afternoon, up from $5,000 when the page was heavily circulated by K-State football fans on Sunday.

At his weekly news conference, K-State football coach Bill Snyder reiterated how proud he was of Ertz for playing through a difficult situation against Oklahoma State.

“Considering the circumstances, I thought he did extremely well,” Snyder said. “I appreciated his effort and his focus when it wasn’t the easiest thing in the world to do. I think all of the players felt the same way. They rallied behind him.”

Snyder said Ertz will participate fully in practices as K-State prepares for its next game against Baylor on Nov. 19.

“Things have gotten a little bit better and he is doing well right now,” Snyder said. “He will be invested in everything we do.”

This story was originally published November 8, 2016 at 3:27 PM with the headline "Jesse Ertz thanks Kansas State family for supporting his sister."