Joey Burford has a lengthy road to recovery after suffering a severe scooter accident.
On Oct. 19, the MILF Manor star’s mother and costar Kelle Mortensen, 53, shared an update on his health in a GoFundMe post.
“I’m reaching out to you today with a heavy heart to share that my son, Joey, has recently been involved in a serious scooter accident,” she revealed. “This tragic event has resulted in significant complications that will require him to undergo multiple facial reconstruction surgeries.”
“Joey is facing a long and challenging road to recovery, and as we navigate this journey, we are confronted with mounting medical bills and the uncertainty of when he will be able to return to work. Your support would mean the world to us during this difficult time.”
Mortensen later shared photos of Burford in the hospital, explaining that he underwent a 3-hour surgery to fix some of the shattered bones in his face. “We are lucky he’s still alive and it’s a total miracle that he didn’t break his neck or back,” she added.
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!
On Oct. 21, Mortensen gave another update on her son and shared that he was now breathing on his own. However, she said he still has a difficult journey ahead.
“Although he has faced some challenges, including the need for extensive dental work and additional facial surgeries, we are relieved to report that the bleeding on his brain has stopped and has not worsened,” she wrote. “Today, Joey will remain in the ICU to undergo a swallow test. If all goes well, he may be transferred to another floor and could potentially be discharged from the hospital by Wednesday or Thursday this week.”
“To ensure his continued recovery, Joey will require both physical and occupational therapy to regain his strength and independence. He will not be released until he is well enough to pass these evaluations,” she added.
In a video on her Instagram Stories, Mortensen thanked those who have sent her messages and donated to her son’s GoFundMe, which has raised nearly $30,000 of its $50,000 goal as of Monday, Oct. 21.
“This has definitely been the hardest two days of my life. I would not wish this upon anybody. It’s a complete miracle he’s alive. I can’t even believe it,” the reality star said in the social media clip. “Thank you Jesus for saving my baby.”
After Burford’s breathing tube was removed, Mortensen shared a video of her son sending a message of gratitude from his hospital bed. “Thank you to everyone who’s praying and donating. I appreciate you guys more than you even know,” he said.
Read the full article here
