NOKESVILLE, Va. — Patriot High School freshman Danno Wernecke is working to overcome severe injuries from an ATV accident.
The Nokesville resident, who was known for his title as MVP of the freshman football team, was taken by helicopter to West Virginia Medical Hospital after being ejected from an ATV, which caused serious head trauma and leg injuries. The crash happened earlier this month in Maryland.
After several medical procedures to stabilize Danno, he has made progress on the long road to full recovery.
Nicknamed “D-Legend” after the accident, Danno will need to undergo occupational and speech therapy at the Mt. Vernon Rehabilitation Center to work on his memory and other cognitive functions.
“He’s getting better everyday – he’s awake, he’s very stable. He’s weeks ahead of schedule both on his leg and with his cognitive therapy,” said Danno’s father, Karl Wernecke.
While Danno will be able to overcome his injuries, the experience has been very trying for his family and the entire local community has reached out to the Wernecke family to show their support.
Members of the community have brought meals, worked on hotel accommodations for the family’s stays near the hospital, and even decorated their home for Christmas.
“It’s overwhelming. I think we are humbled that so many people care about our family, and [the community] has just gone above and beyond to support us; offering us rides, making dinners,” Karl said.
In order to keep family and community members updated, the Wernecke’s created a Facebook page as a way to report on Danno’s progress. On the page people have shared stories of their own injuries and accidents, giving the Wernecke family information about rehab centers and providing support.
“I’m a big believer in that I’d much rather give than receive. There’s so much giving right now towards our family and I’m just not used to it. It’s been a very humbling experience for us, to receive such overwhelming support. I think the most important thing has been the emotional support; every time we start to feel down, somebody will contact us or post something on the [Facebook] site that lifts our spirits again. It’s as if [the community] is carrying us on their shoulders,” Karl said.
In addition to bringing meals and gifts, members in the community have created a website with fundraising events in an attempt to raise money for the medical costs associated with Danno’s treatment. The website features D-Legend merchandise for sale, as well as all of the details of upcoming events to support Dano through fundraising efforts.
A “Do it for Danno Night” has even been created, set for February the 6 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Patriot High School which will allow community members to raise more awareness and proudly display their Danno emblem.
Recent Stories

The most anticipated night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, May 31, step into the romance, elegance, and charm of Paris—without ever leaving Washington, DC.
Join us for An Evening in Paris, an unforgettable soirĂ©e celebrating the best of French culture. Experience an immersive evening filled with gourmet French cuisine, refined wines, captivating live music, and the irresistible ambiance of the City of Light. Whether you’re a lifelong Francophile or simply love a night of sophistication, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.
✨ Highlights of the evening include:

Calling all WSHS Class of 1975 graduates! Our class has planned our 50-Year Class Reunion to be held September 26-28, 2025 in Woodbridge, Virginia. Reunion details and registration information are available to be sent to you.
To find out more, please email our reunion committee at [email protected]
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has