His father, Terry Donovan, shared a new update on Saturday, October 17, 2026.<\/p>\n
According to the Facebook update, Matt kept his eyes open for extended periods while interacting with family members.<\/p>\n
Although he is not fully awake, his family reported moments that offered renewed hope.<\/p>\n
Quarterback Keeps Eyes Open During Family Visits<\/h2>\n
Terry Donovan described two extended periods when his son appeared more responsive.<\/p>\n
The first occurred earlier Saturday, when Terry spent approximately 40 minutes speaking with Matt.<\/p>\n
During that time, Matt kept his eyes open as his father talked to him.<\/p>\n
Later, Terry joined Tina and AJ for another visit lasting approximately 45 minutes.<\/p>\n
Matt again kept his eyes open while family members spoke to him.<\/p>\n
According to his father, Matt appeared able to look into their eyes when asked.<\/p>\n
Terry emphasized that his son was not yet fully awake.<\/p>\n
Still, the family viewed the interactions as meaningful moments in his ongoing recovery.<\/p>\n
Family Notices Possible Reactions to Photos<\/h2>\n
During one visit, Terry showed Matt several family photographs.<\/p>\n
One picture featured Terry’s father, whom he identified while showing the image.<\/p>\n
Terry reported noticing what appeared to be a slight grin on Matt’s face.<\/p>\n
However, he could not confirm whether Matt recognized the person in the photograph.<\/p>\n
Matt also appeared to show a similar reaction while looking at Tina.<\/p>\n
The family described these moments with cautious optimism.<\/p>\n
They have not claimed the reactions establish full awareness or recognition.<\/p>\n
Football Community Continues Offering Support<\/h2>\n
The Donovan family also welcomed several visitors during Saturday’s activities.<\/p>\n
Byron football coach Ben Halder visited and brought a book titled “Pounding the Stone.”<\/p>\n
Although Halder coaches a rival football program, his visit reflected support beyond the field.<\/p>\n
The family read the book’s first chapter aloud to Matt.<\/p>\n
Friends Aaron and Paige Richards and Tomi Swanson also visited, according to Terry’s update.<\/p>\n
The visits provided additional support as the family continued spending time at Matt’s bedside.<\/p>\n
Recovery Follows Serious September Football Injury<\/h2>\n
Donovan suffered a traumatic brain injury during Mayville State’s September 19 game against Simpson University.<\/p>\n
He was flown to Fargo for emergency medical treatment following the injury.<\/p>\n
Doctors performed emergency brain surgery and placed him in a medically induced coma.<\/p>\n
His recovery has continued through weeks of hospital care and close family involvement.<\/p>\n
The latest update describes increased periods of eye-opening and possible responses during conversations.<\/p>\n
However, the family’s observations do not establish how quickly or fully he might recover.<\/p>\n
Rehabilitation Transfer Planned for October 19<\/h2>\n
Terry Donovan said the family remained on schedule for a planned rehabilitation transfer Monday, October 19.<\/p>\n
The destination is Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals<\/a> in Lincoln, Nebraska.<\/p>\n The facility provides specialized rehabilitation services, including treatment for people recovering from brain injuries.<\/p>\n The planned transfer represents another stage in Matt’s care, rather than confirmation of a completed recovery.<\/p>\n Terry said the family believes Matt is beginning to awaken.<\/p>\n He also requested continued prayers for his son’s growing awareness, strength, and courage.<\/p>\n The family has not confirmed that Matt is fully conscious or able to communicate consistently.<\/p>\n For now, the latest update offers cautious encouragement as Matt prepares for further rehabilitation.<\/p>\n I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n
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