And now, time for a bit of good news.
Following a tragic accident on the North Shore of Oahu, in which surfer Dakota Briley was hit by a car and pinned against another vehicle, sending him to the hospital in a serious condition, the 20-year-old has awoken from his coma and is speaking.
It’s a miracle, to say the least. And his father, legendary Pipeline surfer Shawn Briley, is celebrating the milestone in his son’s recovery.
“It was just traumatic, the amount of injuries that were done to his body,” said Shawn.
Dakota had suffered traumatic brain injuries, numerous skull fractures, broken ribs, and a ruptured lung.
“Basically everything from his waist down – all his legs, his femurs – were all complex fractures. It was basically just crushed,” continued Shawn.
Now, after two months in the hospital, Dakota is making huge steps in his recovery.
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“He’s been able to go from whispering, to speaking, and utilizing his voice and vocal cords,” said Shawn. “It’s been a really big deal, a really big breakthrough in his recovery. His overall attitude has been really positive. It’s been amazing and overwhelming for my family to see his strength and his resolve. His spirit has been incredible.”
As for Dakota, here’s what he has to say after this long, grueling recovery:
“I love you all so much,” he said from his hospital bed. “It fills me with joy. Don’t forget, god loves you.”
A spot of light amidst a long and difficult journey for the Briley Ohana.
To support Dakota’s recovery efforts, go here.
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