WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderRockford man hurt in hiking accident walking again

Rockford man hurt in hiking accident walking again

ROCKFORD (WREX) - A Rockford man seriously hurt while hiking in China is making dramatic improvements.

Matt Honson fell face first into a 25 foot ravine while hiking down a mountain in China on January 21. Honson's neck was repaired during eight hours of surgery at a hospital in China. He also had a piece of his skull removed and doctors say he may have lost all his vision in his right eye.

On February 9, Honson was moved from China to North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. There he underwent a second surgery on his neck. He is now recovering in the rehab unit and goes to therapy twice a day.

Honson's family says he is now wearing a back brace and is able to get up and walk around on his own. He is also going through speech, occupational and physical therapy.

Matt and his wife Nora held a press conference at the hospital in Minnesota on Thursday to tell their story and thank everyone for their support.

His next surgery will be in a few weeks when doctors will put a plate in his skull.

If he continues to improve he may be able to go home to continue his rehab in two to three weeks.

On Saturday here in Rockford a fundraiser is being held to help raise money for the Honson family to help offset medical costs. The Culvers at 6727 East Riverside is holding a Pancake Breakfast in Matt's name from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

You can also donate to the family by sending money to:

Alpine Bank

C/O Matthew Honson Medical Fund

PO Box 6086

Rockford, IL 61125 - 1086