Mother praying for 12-year-old son after crash leaves him in coma: ‘You feel so helpless’

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB/Gray News) - A Florida family is asking for prayers as a 12-year-old boy fights for his life in the hospital after a tire blowout that caused their car to crash.

Dayna McKinley says she and her three children were traveling northbound July 29 on Interstate 75 in Alachua County when one of their tires suddenly exploded, causing their vehicle to lose control and roll over.

“I heard this really loud – God, it almost sounded like an explosion, which is what it was – it was a tire,” McKinley said. “It just felt like somebody or something just came and pulled me, and I lost control.”

McKinley says she couldn’t get her 12-year-old son Aiden out of the car until emergency crews arrived. All three of her children were injured in the crash, but Aiden ended up in the intensive care unit.

“Due to the trauma that he’s experienced, he is in a coma,” McKinley said. “Doctors are not sure how long his recovery could be or if he will [recover].”

Aiden suffered a severe brain injury and will need several surgeries. He is currently on a ventilator but has started taking some breaths on his own.

His mother says she prays every night while holding his hand.

“At night, we give him his quiet time, and that’s usually when I pray and just hold his hand. So, that’s kind of where we’re at right now,” McKinley said. “I prayed to God if he could just keep my baby alive.”

McKinley says this has been emotional for her entire family.

“It’s just horrific watching your child, and you feel so helpless. As a mom, you want to protect them when they’re sick, you’re there to help them feel better, and I can’t do anything,” she said.

The family is staying at the Ronald McDonald House while Aiden receives treatment in the ICU.

McKinley says her son is known for making people laugh with his quick one-liners and his signature Donald Duck impression.

“We’re very grateful for those who have donated and shared and prayed for Aiden and my family,” she said.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family with medical bills and expenses.