HONOLULU (KHON2) — There are signs of progress for Dakota Briley, 20, who was hit by a car in late June while loading surfboards into a van at Chun’s on Oahu’s North Shore.
After five surgeries, he is now breathing on his own, but the family is still asking for prayers.
“He’s been my protector since birth,” said his younger cousin Kala Lau. “I don’t know what I would do without him, but I know he’s going to get through because he’s our drill sergeant and he’s so strong, and he’s the healthiest person I know. When I heard the news, it was the hardest news I’ve ever heard.”
The family says they are maneuvering through all the stages of grief while remaining strong for Briley.
“He’s awake, but due to the severity of his brain injury, its going to take a long time, we don’t know how long for him to recover his abilities,” Briley’s stepsister Erin Lau explained.
He has been able to move a few fingers, he is able to breathe on his own, but it’s unknown if he will be able to walk or the extent of his head trauma.
The 20-year-old has undergone five major surgeries since the crash occurred on June 14. His family said he has had surgery on his legs, lung, pelvis, spine and recently had a skin graph.
“Right now he doesn’t have any feeling in his lower body, but the spinal cord is very damaged,” Erin Lau said.
She added that despite the severity of the damage, the family is still optimistic on Briley’s recovery.
Every day there have been dozens of people at Queen’s Medical Center lobby praying and singing for Briley and showing his ohana support.
“It’s so amazing how many people came down to support him, he’s getting so much love which is so good, such positive energy,” said Briley’s younger cousin Peyton Lau. “I love you Dakota, I’m praying for you every day, and I just want the best for you.”
His family added that his strong personality is a driving force in his healing.
“My brother is the strongest person I know, and the most stubborn person I know,” Erin Lau added. “I want people to know he is so full of love, he’s a fantastic student, grandson, son, brother, and friend and community member. If you know him your life is better for it, and I just want people to know he’s so good and if anybody can get through this, it’s him, he’s strong.”
The Brileys say they are focused on his recovery.
Police say the crash is still under investigation, no citation or arrest has been issued.
The family has started a GoFundMe to assist with medical costs, loss of income, and Dakota’s rehab.