NOKESVILLE, Va. — Patriot High School freshman Danno Wernecke is working to overcome severe injuries from an ATV accident.
The Nokesville resident, who was known for his title as MVP of the freshman football team, was taken by helicopter to West Virginia Medical Hospital after being ejected from an ATV, which caused serious head trauma and leg injuries. The crash happened earlier this month in Maryland.
After several medical procedures to stabilize Danno, he has made progress on the long road to full recovery.
Nicknamed “D-Legend” after the accident, Danno will need to undergo occupational and speech therapy at the Mt. Vernon Rehabilitation Center to work on his memory and other cognitive functions.
“He’s getting better everyday – he’s awake, he’s very stable. He’s weeks ahead of schedule both on his leg and with his cognitive therapy,” said Danno’s father, Karl Wernecke.
While Danno will be able to overcome his injuries, the experience has been very trying for his family and the entire local community has reached out to the Wernecke family to show their support.
Members of the community have brought meals, worked on hotel accommodations for the family’s stays near the hospital, and even decorated their home for Christmas.
“It’s overwhelming. I think we are humbled that so many people care about our family, and [the community] has just gone above and beyond to support us; offering us rides, making dinners,” Karl said.
In order to keep family and community members updated, the Wernecke’s created a Facebook page as a way to report on Danno’s progress. On the page people have shared stories of their own injuries and accidents, giving the Wernecke family information about rehab centers and providing support.
“I’m a big believer in that I’d much rather give than receive. There’s so much giving right now towards our family and I’m just not used to it. It’s been a very humbling experience for us, to receive such overwhelming support. I think the most important thing has been the emotional support; every time we start to feel down, somebody will contact us or post something on the [Facebook] site that lifts our spirits again. It’s as if [the community] is carrying us on their shoulders,” Karl said.
In addition to bringing meals and gifts, members in the community have created a website with fundraising events in an attempt to raise money for the medical costs associated with Danno’s treatment. The website features D-Legend merchandise for sale, as well as all of the details of upcoming events to support Dano through fundraising efforts.
A “Do it for Danno Night” has even been created, set for February the 6 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Patriot High School which will allow community members to raise more awareness and proudly display their Danno emblem.
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Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
