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Ashley McBryde revealed that she’s “been holding my breath” as she awaited health updates for one of her bandmates, who was recently in a “near fatal accident,” the country singer-songwriter shared on Sunday evening (December 11). McBryde, who officially became a member of the Grand Ole Opry over the weekend, confirmed that her bandmate, keys player Wes Dorethy, is now recovering.
“I haven’t said much about it yet because I’d been holding my breath waiting to hear that he’s ‘out of the woods.’ A few weeks ago our band mate Wes was in a near fatal accident,” McBryde wrote in a heartfelt post on Instagram, sharing a photo of herself with Wes, surrounded by other bandmates. “We are so joy filled that he is on the road to recovery. It looks like it’s going to be a long one.”
McBryde continued, sharing a way that others can help Wes as he recovers from the accident: “The life we live as musicians often means we don’t have health insurance. If you’re in a giving mood, or looking for a way to make a difference in someone’s life, the link I’m donating to to help my road brother with his medical needs is posted in the link in my bio and stories. Wishing health and safety to all of our road worn loved ones. Country music takes care of its people. Thank you, y’all.”
Dorethy, who recently celebrated his 27th birthday, suffered injuries in an ATV accident, according to the Go Fund Me page McBryde shared. Dorethy’s injuries include a crushed pelvis and damaged organs, and he’s had to undergo multiple surgeries so far. The page has raised more than $22,500 of its $50,000 goal as of publication time on Monday (December 12). It reads, in part:
“For so many of us in this community of North Central Arkansas and Mountian Home, Wes is the first thing that comes to mind when someone says local music. Wes is a professional musician, just getting noticed but has dedicated his life to entertaining people with his amazing gift. Wes sings, writes, and is proficient in a number of instruments. He has toured the world by scraping by, charging way too little for his services, and extending his generosity to everyone he meets.”
Dorethy shared an update on social media last week, marking “the strangest birthday I’ve had” and expressing his gratitude for his doctors and friends and family who have offered support. He said at that time: “Life is weird and hard, but I think it's still worth it. If you've made it this far I hope you're at least encouraged that there are lots of good people out there. So be kind to each other, show grace when you can, and I hope to see all of you in person soon.”