Lincoln, Neb. – Mayville State University football player Matt Donovan is making a hopeful step forward in his recovery after a life‑threatening brain injury sustained during the September 19 homecoming game against Simpson University. According to a family update released Sunday, Donovan spent 16 consecutive hours breathing without the assistance of a ventilator, marking his first extended period of unaided respiration since the accident.
Injury and immediate care
Donovan was knocked unconscious in the third quarter after a helmet‑to‑helmet collision. Emergency responders air‑lifted him to Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, where surgeons performed an emergency craniotomy to relieve the bleed. Following the operation, he was placed in a medically induced coma to protect his brain while swelling subsided.
Rehabilitation progress
Last week, Donovan was transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Lincoln, where a multidisciplinary team of physicians, physical therapists, and neurologists has been monitoring his progress. The family’s latest statement highlighted that, after weeks of intensive care, Donovan is now able to sit up briefly, respond to simple commands, and, most notably, sustain breathing on his own for extended periods.
“He spent 16 hours breathing on his own this weekend,” the family wrote. “We are grateful for every moment of wakefulness and awareness.” The update also noted that Donovan was taken to a local church on Sunday – his first church visit since the injury – where he briefly stepped outside and squeezed a family member’s hand when asked if he wanted to go.
Community support and prayers
The Donovan family asked the Mayville State community, former teammates, and local residents to keep him in prayer, specifically requesting prayers for continued wakefulness, awareness, and healing. The university’s athletic department posted a message of support, emphasizing the importance of faith and family during the recovery process.
“Matt’s strength and the outpouring of love from our community have been a true testament to the power of faith and perseverance,” the athletic director said. “We remain hopeful that he will continue to make strides each day.”
Looking ahead
While doctors caution that full recovery from a severe brain injury can take months or even years, the recent milestone offers a promising sign that Donovan’s brain function is improving. The rehabilitation team plans to continue with physical therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive exercises aimed at restoring his motor skills and mental acuity.
Family members remain optimistic, noting that each small victory – from breathing unaided to attending church – reinforces their belief that Donovan will eventually return to a normal, active life. They encourage anyone who wishes to support the family to send messages of encouragement and keep the Donovan family in their thoughts.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
