University of Hawaii defensive lineman Kalepo Naotala is being transferred to a Colorado hospital that specializes in spinal-cord injuries, family spokesman Gill Byrd announced on Thursday.
Naotala, 19, was seriously injured after an accident off Waikiki Beach on July 1. A witness said Naotala appeared to hit his head while diving off the wall near Kapahulu Groin. Two teammates pulled Naotala from the water. Naotala suffered a spinal injury and did not appear to have movement in his limbs when he was taken to The Queen’s Medical Center.
Byrd said Naotala’s condition stabilized and his vital signs were under control during his stay at Queen’s.
“Right now, Kalepo does not have use of his lower extremities, and partial use above the waist with his arms, just partial,” Byrd said. “There is no use lower in his legs. We want to make sure it’s worded that it’s ‘right now’ there’s no use.”
Byrd said the family is hopeful Naotala will show improvement at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colo. The 93-bed facility is known for its work and research in spinal injuries and neuro rehabilitation.
“He’s starting his second phase of rehabilitation,” Byrd said. “We’re excited about that. We’re excited about what the future holds for him. The family is encouraged.”
Byrd said Tony Naotala will stay with his son in Colorado. Naotala’s mother, Shantell, and his siblings will travel back and forth between Colorado and their West Virginia home.
On Thursday, the family issued a statement thanking the hospital’s doctors, nurses and staff; the UH coaches, players and administrators; fans; and Calvary Chapel West Oahu.
“We can’t wait to return to Hawaii with Kalepo leading the way so he can personally thank you for your love and support,” the family wrote in the open letter.
Byrd is hanai father to Naotala’s parents. Kalepo Naotala lived with Byrd’s family in San Diego. Byrd is a former NFL cornerback who now serves as the Buffalo Bills’ defensive backs coach. “We’re family,” Byrd said. “They are closer than some of my biological relatives.”
Naotala signed with UH on Feb. 3, 2016, but delayed enrolling until this past January to fully recover from knee surgery. He participated in the Rainbow Warriors’ spring practice and offseason conditioning program. He was expected to compete for a spot in the defensive-line rotation this season.
