Support Ori's road to recovery: keep his family by his side

On Friday, August 30th, Ori Rector and Brennae Butterfield, both Colorado Parks & Wildlife seasonal employees, were driving from Pagosa Springs to Durango on HWY 160 when they were hit head-on by another pick-up at highway speed. Ori Rector was seriously injured and flown to Colorado Springs for medical treatment. He has multiple broken bones and will require several surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. His parents, Fred and Misty Rector, drove from their home in Bloomfield, NM to be with their son. While Ori's medical expenses will be covered, his parents and other family members are paying out of pocket for accommodations.

It is miraculous that either survived the impact. While awaiting help, and despite his injuries, Ori stayed calm and reassured Brennae that everything was going to be ok, and that he was ok. Emergency responders arrived and had to extricate Ori and Brennae from the crumpled cab, removing the roof and creating space to release Ori’s pinned legs.

Ori is in great spirits for all that he has endured. His first surgery has been completed and his left leg has now been pinned. His right hip is being held in traction until surgery. Thank goodness his seatbelt was secure, though the impact was so severe it caused lacerations on his neck and torso. Additionally, his cheekbone is broken and he suffered multiple broken ribs.

We are thankful that Ori and Brennae survived, and that Brennae was able to be released from the hospital with minor injuries. Ori continues to have a positive attitude and remains strong through his surgeries.

We are hopeful that our community will rally and help support his family during this difficult time.