Texas football legend leaves hospital after life-changing accident

After suffering severe burn injuries in a ranch accident earlier this month, University of Texas football legend Jordan Shipley was discharged from the hospital, his wife announced on social media over the weekend.

Sunny Shipley, Shipley's wife, said Saturday that the family left the hospital after a life-changing week.

“This week has been life changing in many ways,” she wrote. But since so many are praying, I wanted to let you know we left the hospital. I am still stunned."

Sunny Shipley said physicians and nurses praised her husband's progress given his injuries.

At release, “Numerous doctors, nurses and specialists kept telling us, that he is nothing short of a miracle,” she said, adding that they had “never seen someone come in to their care in his condition and leave this soon.”

Shipley is no longer hospitalized, but his wife said his recovery will require continuing care and monitoring.

“He is still in pain, we have a hard and long journey ahead,” she added. "We are not home yet, but will stay near the hospital for dressing changes and to monitor his adjustment out of the hospital."

She also commended the staff at Dell Seton Medical Center for treating Shipley.

“The Dell Seton burn team, nurses, and everyone we met there are special,” she wrote. “Please pray and thank God for them.”

An accident on his ranch outside Burnet this month badly injured Shipley. His family said the machine he was operating caught fire. Despite severe burns, he escaped.

Around 2 p.m., deputies from the Burnet County Sheriff's Office responded to a complaint. A worker drove Shipley to a local hospital before flying her to Austin for expert care. The family claimed he was critical but stable and sedated while doctors evaluated his burns, lungs, hands, infection risk, and renal function.

Shipley is considered one of UT's greatest wide receivers. He set a Longhorns record with 248 receptions and finished second in yards and touchdowns throughout his six-year career. After his third-round NFL draft selection in 2010, he became a two-time All-American.

His wife stated that the family is grateful for the support as he continues to recover. “We love you all deeply,” she added. “From the bottom of our hearts.”

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