‘I know I will walk again’ - Fiery road crash survivor stays positive despite multiple injuries

Despite being unable to move and facing life as an amputee following a tragic crash that he was involved in last month, Dontae Francis remains in good spirits.

Francis, 19, can only lay on his back and is in constant need of medication following the fiery blaze. But he told THE STAR that he believes he will defy the odds.

"As much as I can only move my hands and I'm often uncomfortable, I have faith. I know I will walk again," he said, adding that he would also be grateful for any assistance he can get in make this happen.

On Sunday, February 16, Francis was one of four people injured in a tragic crash on Marescaux Road in Kingston. The accident claimed the lives of three people, 26-year-old Tavaughn Miller, 33-year-old Andre Wright, and 20-year-old Kawayne Fearon. Thanks to the heroic actions of his uncle, Robert Johnson, Dontae survived. Johnson spotted the burning vehicle, and, with a friend risked their lives to pull Francis from the wreckage. For Yanique Campbell, life has become a nightmare as she watches her son lay helpless in a hospital bed. He needs surgery that costs more than $1.5 million, money his family does not have. Now, they are pleading for the public's help to give him a second chance at mobility.

Although he is grateful to be alive, Francis' road to recovery has been extremely difficult. Days after the crash, doctors were forced to amputate his left foot due to the severity of his burns. He suffered third-degree burns on the right side of his body, from his foot to his hand, and his back was broken in three places. For him to possibly walk again, he will need surgery at the Kingston Public Hospital to place three medical pins in his spine. Although his family will not have to cover the cost of his surgery, Campbell has to purchase the pins. The total cost is $1,552,564, and while his family has managed to raise $600,000, they still need help to secure the remaining $952,564.

"I am overwhelmed, and my mind is heavy," said Campbell, who is also the mother of a 12-year-old autistic son. "Watching [Francis] endure this ordeal is heartbreaking. It's unbearable to see my 19-year-old going through this," she added.

In addition to the cost of the pins, Campbell also has to constantly buy her son medication and other items he needs, which has placed an even greater financial burden on her.

"I would be so grateful for any help we can get. Every little bit brings us closer to seeing Dontae walk again, and that means everything to me as a mother," she said.

"Whatever little anyone can give, I truly appreciate it because I want to be with my family, and go to church and live mi life again," Francis said, adding that his experience and determination to walk again will inspire others.

Persons wishing to assist Dontae Francis may do so by donating to: NCB Account # 065575507 in the name of Dontae Francis, or JN Account #2094566763 in the name of Yanique Campbell.