Rockets Defenceman Lucky to Be Alive

Kelowna Rockets defenceman Kyle Verdino is lucky to be alive.

Verdino was involved in a serious two vehicle accident late last month in Phoenix Arizona, breaking his ankle and left hand.

Verdino's father Ralph says his 17 year old son also underwent plastic surgery after suffering significant cuts to the right side of his face.

"When we saw his truck four days later at the salvage yard I said...(sigh). People were scared to ask how the driver was. One of the workers said we see a lot of wrecks and this is one of the top five that we've seen here, damage wise." 

Verdino says his son should have a full recovery.      

"The ankle they (doctors) figure he will have to be off it for about six weeks, three without pressure at all and then in three weeks doctors will put a walking boot on him."  

Verdino was driving to the gym when he was hit by an on-coming vehicle.

Charges in the accident have not be laid.

Regan Bartel - Kelowna