FARGO, N.D. – Mayville State University’s quarterback, Matt Donovan, is making encouraging signs of recovery after a traumatic brain injury that sidelined him in September. According to a heartfelt Facebook post from his father, Terry Donovan, the family spent several hours on Oct. 17 simply talking to Matt and encouraging him to open his eyes.
Family time fuels hope
Terry wrote that the morning began with about forty minutes of conversation while Matt kept his eyes open, and the afternoon continued with another forty‑five minutes of interaction with Terry, his mother Tina, and his brother AJ. Though Matt is not yet fully awake, the family was able to prompt him to look directly at them when asked.
During the visit, Terry showed Matt photographs, including one of his own grandfather, and asked if he recognized the person. While he could not confirm recognition, Matt responded with a slight grin. A similar reaction occurred when Matt saw his mother, offering a small but meaningful indication of awareness.
Friends and community support
The Donovan family also welcomed several friends, including Aaron and Paige Richards and Tomi Swanson, who stopped by to offer encouragement. In a touching gesture, rival football coach Ben Halder from Byron visited and donated a copy of the book “Pounding the Stone,” which the family read aloud to Matt, hoping the rhythm of the words would further stimulate his senses.
Prayerful anticipation of rehab
In his post, Terry asked readers to continue praying for Matt’s awareness and bravery, emphasizing the family’s belief that he is “starting to awaken.” The family remains on schedule for a planned trip to Madonna Rehabilitation Facility on Monday, Oct. 19, where Matt will receive specialized care aimed at restoring his cognitive and physical functions.
Background of the injury
Matt sustained the injury during a Sept. 19 game against Simpson University. After the collision, he was air‑lifted to Fargo, where surgeons performed emergency brain surgery and placed him in a medically induced coma to protect his brain while swelling subsided.
While the road to full recovery will be long, the Donovan family’s daily visits, the support of friends and fellow coaches, and the community’s prayers illustrate the power of faith, family, and perseverance in the face of a serious health challenge.
Looking ahead
As Matt prepares for his upcoming stay at Madonna, the family remains hopeful that continued family interaction, prayer, and professional rehabilitation will bring him back to the field and to a normal life. The community is encouraged to keep the Donovan family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult journey.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
