ATLANTA — 18-year-old Tekyro Hayes is counting his blessings after surviving a terrifying encounter with an EF-2 tornado that struck Rockdale County -- leaving him seriously injured when a tree fell on his family car.
The harrowing incident occurred last week as Hayes was driving home after dropping his mother off at work and grabbing food with friends.
Despite initial skepticism upon receiving tornado warnings on his phone, Hayes found himself caught in the midst of a fierce storm.
"I didn't believe it at first," Hayes recounted from his hospital bed. "But I said, might as well just go on; it started raining."
The severity of the situation quickly became apparent when a tree crashed into Hayes' car, trapping him inside until help arrived.
"Everyone was telling me to keep breathing," Hayes recalled, expressing gratitude to an unknown rescuer named Victor, who he said assisted in freeing him from the wreckage.
Hayes, who initially believed his injuries were minor, later discovered he had fractured his spine and needed emergency surgery. He's continuing to recuperate in the hospital.
In an exclusive interview with 11Alive, Hayes spoke optimistically about his recovery progress.
"Right after surgery, I was able to feel in my legs. So, this is a good success," Hayes shared, indicating signs of hope amid his challenging journey.
While Hayes faces an extensive rehabilitation process that is expected to last at least two months, he remains focused on the positive.
"The best news will be when I go home," Hayes remarked. He also expressed his deep appreciation for his mother's unwavering support during this challenging period.
Meanwhile, Hayes' family is grappling with the loss of their only vehicle, which was damaged beyond repair by the tornado. Hayes' mother is actively seeking alternative transportation solutions until a more permanent arrangement can be made and emphasized that her son's survival is paramount.
As Hayes prepares for intensive therapy to regain mobility, his indomitable spirit and resilience serve as a beacon of hope amidst adversity -- underscoring the profound impact of community support during times of crisis.