Frankfort Family Rallying Support as Teen Fights for Life After Accident

Frankfort, Ky. — Rico Morton is closing his family-owned barbershop, Nuwine, but this Friday at 5 pm feels different. His 18-year-old son, Donyell Morton, is currently recovering in UK Hospital following a near-fatal accident.

The incident occurred on October 17, when Donyell’s car veered off the road just past the Midway Exit on Interstate 60. In an attempt to flag down help, he was struck by another vehicle, leaving him with serious injuries. “At a certain point, we didn’t know if he was going to make it or still going to be here with us,” Rico recalled.

Donyell, a recent Woodford County graduate, endured critical injuries including the removal of his spleen, collapsed lungs, a damaged artery in his neck, and multiple fractures. Medical professionals had warned the Mortons that their son might not survive, but the family held onto hope.

Three days ago, in a heartwarming moment, Rico spoke to Donyell for the first time since the accident. “We were overjoyed. Overjoyed is the best way I can explain it,” Rico said. “Doctors say it was a miracle.”

As Donyell begins his recovery journey, which will involve an extended hospital stay and physical therapy, the Morton family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover impending medical expenses. “He’s tough. The doctors say he was a tank,” Rico stated, emphasizing Donyell’s resilience. “And he’s now a survivor, too.”

The emotional support from the community has been unwavering as the Mortons navigate this difficult chapter of their lives.