The community came out Saturday to welcome home Joey Whited, who was badly injured in a motorcycle accident in September.
The homecoming held at Dolores Outfitters attracted a large crowd of people, said Jerry Whited, Joey’s dad.
“It felt awesome to have everyone there to support us,” he said. “Joey’s friends were all there and were so happy to see him.”
Joey, 15, suffered a brain injury and has been undergoing surgeries and treatment in Denver hospitals since the accident. He is confined to a wheelchair.
Thanks to a significant donation, Joey will be receiving an all-terrain wheelchair with tracks this week.
“It goes everywhere and will allow him to be outside, where he loves to be,” Whited said. “We can go to football games, on walks and even go hunting with it.”
The wheelchair also has a lift function for a standing position that is beneficial for his recovery.
A wheelchair ramp was installed at the Whited home by members of the Dolores Fire Fire Protection District.
“Having him back in Dolores, around people he knows and is familiar with will help with the healing process,” Whited said. “It was a terrible accident, but we are going to get through it and keep on going.”
All around town are “Joey Strong” signs, and people wear T-shirts with the inspirational message as well.
Donations toward Joey’s recovery can be made through an account at First Southwest Bank, in Cortez.
