Ardenhart Crash Victim Survives Internal Decapitation

Most people who suffer an internal decapitation usually die on the way to the hospital or soon there after. Not so for the 24-year-old Jon Wilhite however. The only survivor in the April 9th car accident that left Anaheim Angels pitcher Nick Ardenhart and two of his friends dead. Wilhite is currently in rehab recovering from this near fatal accident.

Internal Decapitation is defined as when “the skull separates from the spinal column during severe head injury.” Although often fatal, some are able to recover through rigorous physical therapy. In his current condition Wilhite is able to talk, but his arm and leg movement is limited.

The support for Wilhite’s recovery has been overwhelming. Current MLB players including Alex Rodriguez and Tori Hunter are donating signed jersey’s and baseball’s for an upcoming online benefit auction. Wilhite, who himself played college baseball, will also have to relearn how to eat and swallow. Luckily, the doctors found no apparent brain damage.

Photo Courtesy Of: Los Angeles Times