Teen's recovery path looks brighter

MOBILE, Ala. - The parents of a teen who's recovering from a serious sports injury just got a special Christmas gift. Thanks to a successful insurance appeal, and a group on ministry pilots, he's now one step closer to getting the care he needs to make a full recovery.

Timothy Robinson was injured during a football game, and was in a coma for several days. He's been fighting to get better ever since. He is getting stronger and more active every day.

Last time we spoke about the LeFlore High School student, his family was trying to get him into rehabilitation, but they were running into a few obstacles with the insurance company. The family appealed, and the company changed its decision.

"They called me first thing this morning from the insurance company and told me that they didn't want me to hear from anybody else. It was breathtaking news this morning. I was so excited," Evelyn McGhee said.

McGhee said her prayers have been answered. Timothy has been cleared to go to rehab in Atlanta. Since the devastating injury, Timothy has overcome great obstacles. But in order to fully recover, he needs intense rehab.

"The therapy is going to give him the opportunity to be able to get him to talk again. The CAT scan they said was fine. It's just a matter of learning things all over again from the brain injury. So this is a formality of getting him back to where he needs to be," she added.

McGhee said the insurance company approved the rehab, but not the transportation. That's where Pilots for Christ is stepping in.

"We are pilots that are Christians, and we volunteer with our pilots and their planes at no cost to an individual if we can work out details for the trip. We really call it a 'Ministry of His'. They're trying to get their child the best doctors able to treat him. We're trying to help get the same thing done," Phil Allen with Pilots for Christ said.

"I did talk to them today, it's very optimistic," McGhee said.

Now it's just a matter of paperwork and logistics. But this family said they're so thankful for everyone's help, support, and dedication to getting Timothy back to 100 percent.

"This is just the rest of what it's going to take to get him to finish high school this year. Hopefully he'll be able to finish and graduate with his class," McGhee added.

The rehab should last about six to eight weeks. The family and doctors are trying to get Timothy to rehab as early as Monday.

We've been following Timothy from the beginning and will definitely keep you up-to-date on his progress. If you would still like to help with Timothy's other medical expenses you can still make a donation. Just stop by any Regions Bank or USA Credit Union.