Teen Who Fell 240 Feet into Ravine Goes Home After 1 Month in Hospital: ‘My Brain and Skull Need to Heal’ (Exclusive)

Missouri Teen Goes Home After Falling Into Ravine, Spending Month in Hospital (Exclusive)

A 13-year-old Missouri teen, Dakota “Cody” Trenkle Jr., has finally returned home after a harrowing experience that involved him falling into a ravine and spending a month in the hospital. The teenager went missing on July 27 while skateboarding in Goose Creek Lake and was eventually found severely injured at the bottom of a ravine three days later by a police dog. Dakota had fallen a staggering 240 feet and sustained severe head trauma, brain bleeds, skull fractures, deep wounds, and kidney issues as a result of the fall.

Following his discovery, Dakota was airlifted to a hospital in St. Louis, where he was placed in a medically induced coma for two weeks before eventually waking up. He was released from the hospital in late August, just before the Labor Day weekend, marking his first return home since the traumatic incident. Dakota’s mother, Stephanie Neely, shared details about her son’s progress since coming home, highlighting both physical and cognitive challenges he still faces.

Despite the ordeal, Dakota remains optimistic about his recovery journey, expressing a strong desire to return to school and resume skateboarding as soon as possible. However, he acknowledges the importance of allowing his brain and skull to heal properly before engaging in such physical activities. Stephanie Neely mentioned that Dakota continues to struggle with physical coordination, balance, strength, and short-term memory loss, which can be frustrating for him at times.

The family is committed to supporting Dakota through an extensive therapy and follow-up regimen to ensure his full recovery. This includes regular physical therapy sessions, occupational and speech therapies, neurology and liver appointments, as well as psychiatric visits. Stephanie previously shared a heartwarming moment when Dakota, upon waking up from his coma, used sign language to express his love for her, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges they have faced.

As Dakota navigates his healing journey, his story serves as a reminder of resilience and the unwavering support of loved ones during challenging times. The community’s outpouring of support and well wishes for Dakota’s recovery is a testament to the strength and unity found in times of adversity. Despite the hurdles ahead, Dakota and his family remain determined to overcome obstacles and regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

In a world filled with uncertainties, Dakota’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and perseverance, showcasing the power of resilience in the face of adversity. The teen’s unwavering spirit and the unwavering support of his loved ones have been instrumental in his path to recovery, highlighting the importance of community and compassion during trying times. As Dakota continues his healing process, his story serves as an inspiration for those facing their battles, reminding us of the strength found in resilience and the human spirit.