While waiting to have his little league photo taken at Starrett City’s baseball field, Davonte Kelly suddenly screamed in pain, grabbed his head and felt blood run through his fingers. He said he thought he had been hit by a ball. He was immediately attended to by the coach and his mom and 911 was called.
Davonte was bought to Brookdale’s Emergency Department by EMS, and upon examination, the doctors noticed something shining in the wound. Dr. Mary Baldauf, Director of PICU was immediately called and ordered a CT scan. The results were shocking; Davonte had a bullet lodged in his skull.
Dr. Louis Cornacchia, Chief of Neurosurgery was called to determine the severity of the injury and ensure the bullet was removed. “Had the bullet perforated the skull, it would have been fatal. He is a very lucky little boy,” said Dr. Cornacchia.
A huge Mets fan, Davonte received a gift from his favorite team while at Brookdale and an invitation to a game and meet his hero, David Wright.
Upon discharge on Wednesday, June 10th, a huge press conference was held where Davonte stole the show. Both Drs. Baldauf and Cornacchia were interviewed and reiterated how lucky Davonte is. He is expected to make a full recovery and be back on the baseball field very soon.
To view a clip of the press conference featuring Dr. Cornacchia, go to http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local&id=6857669
