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Kummrow’s recovery is remarkable

By Karin Burke | The Daily Journal

Published Friday, January 19, 2007

Accident victim Darin Kummrow will be performing along with other former members of the band “Rizo.”

The band’s reunion and performance may well be considered a celebration, if not a statement of victory, as a year ago Darin’s survival was in doubt. Saturday’s event, a benefit to help the Kummrow family with medical expenses, marks a point of Darin’s near complete recovery.

On Oct. 24, 2005, Darin was ejected from his Jeep and his head struck a fence post. Darin sustained trauma to the head and numerous bone fractures and was immediately airlifted to Merit Care Hospital in Fargo, where he remained in a coma for six weeks. His prognosis for survival was slim.

Darin stayed at Merit Care until January 2006. His parents, Tom and Judy Kummrow, adjusted their lives to enable them to stay near Darin, renting an apartment in Fargo, and largely putting their lives in Fergus Falls on hold. In January of 2006, Darin was transferred to Lake Region Hospital, and the Kummrows returned to Fergus Falls.

Darin, 28, returned to his home in February 2006. His recovery has surpassed expectations, and he today looks forward to a complete recovery. “Darin’s last surgery took place on Oct. 23, nearly exactly a year after the accident.” said Tom Kummrow. “It would have been impossible to imagine him recovered as he is back then, or that he would be completing his treatments.”

The October surgery treated his right hip, which had no motion prior to the surgery. Today, Darin is walking and actively participating in physical therapy.

The Kummrows credit much of Darin’s recovery, and their own on-going hope, to the Fergus Falls community.

“The support of the people has absolutely blown us away. Everything that gave us hope came directly from them.” said Tom.

Darin, lifting weights with his right leg during physical therapy, said he is excited for the event. He cited businesses and community members who have lent their support, and said he is eager to play with his band.

Asked for his thoughts on the past year and on what he plans to do in the coming year, Darin spoke of going back to school, possibly pursuing a career with the Department of Natural Resources.

Saturday’s benefit is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. at VFW post 612, 420 E. Washington Ave., in Fergus Falls. A meatball supper will be served at $5 a person, both a silent and a live auction are planned.

Darin’s band, “Rizo,” and the band, “Radio On,” will play following the auction.

Donations for Darin will also be accepted at American Federal Bank, 117 S. Mill. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans provide matching funds for a portion of all donations.