A devastating accident changed everything for Wichita West High School football player Deandre Rogers Jr.
While he was sleeping at home, a truck crashed into the front of the house, right into his bedroom.
Junior was rushed into emergency surgery, where doctors operated on his brain and skull.
He plays varsity basketball, wearing jersey #5 as a shooting guard, and also excels in varsity football, where he plays multiple positions, including running back, wide receiver, and cornerback.
Deandre Rogers Jr’s Parents Deandre Markeys Rogers And Leaundria Coleman Updates On Their Son’s Condition
A large and close-knit family deeply loves the second oldest of nine siblings, Junior.
Deandre’s father, Deandre Markeys Rogers, shared a GoFundMe page to help support his son’s recovery, using the hashtag #RogersStrong.
Similarly, Junior’s mother, Leaundria Coleman, shared a heartwarming update on his recovery, saying that he stood up for the first time to transfer from his bed to a recliner chair.
Junior was placed in a medically induced coma and put on a ventilator to help him breathe.
A brain monitor was also installed, and doctors later confirmed damage to the right side of his brain.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Junior is showing incredible strength.
On June 12, he was taken off the ventilator and began breathing on his own.
The very next day, he was able to swallow his first sips of water and eat a few spoonfuls of applesauce.
Junior’s journey to recovery is just beginning, but his fighting spirit continues to inspire those around him.
As he continues to recover from his recent injury, Junior is set to be transferred to Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska.
A gifted athlete, Junior was involved in football, basketball, and track and field.
But his interests extended far beyond sports. Raised in a faith-centered home, he began playing drums for his church choir at just 8 years old and remained connected to his spiritual roots.
Outside of school and church, Junior had recently started volunteering with Earthworks Landscaping, gaining hands-on experience with outdoor projects.
He enjoyed helping others, staying active, and especially loved fishing trips with family and friends.
The Wichita Police Department has confirmed that the driver of the truck involved in the crash that injured DeAndre Rogers Jr. was taken into custody.
According to police, both high speed and driving under the influence are being investigated as possible causes of the accident.
