Positive Attitude Sustains Barrington Boy Hit by Train

Hough Street School fifth-grader Dominic Szymanski survived a horrific train accident just two months ago in downtown Barrington. But being hit by a Metra train and losing his foot hasn't changed the positive, artistic child. 

"He's always been a positive child. He took it all in stride," said Dominic's mother Gayle Benedetto Szymanski, during an interview after Dominic's return to school.

"The fact that he survived is a miracle. We are so grateful," said Luke Szymanski, Dominic's father.

Dominic had four surgeries in seven days after the accident, Luke said. At that time, the family didn't know how long his recovery would take. However, he is strong and healing more quickly than expected, Gayle said. 

Dominic is being fitted for a prosthetic on Thursday. Gayle said he is expected, eventually, to be able to do all the activities he could do before the accident. 
Dominic wasn't involved in athletics. His interest is art, particularly drawing cartoons in pencil, Gayle said. 

"He loves to draw," she said. 

Dominic's positive attititude grew even stronger with the help of his family, friends and the Barrington community, Gayle said. She said he was moved by all the cards and letters of support he received. On Dominic's classroom desk atand letters, so his classmates could reach out to him whenever they wanted.

"There were constant deliveries to the hospital and to our home, from people in the district, out of the district, other states. That played a big role; it really lifted his spirits," Gayle said. 

Dominic has first-grade, twin siblings, Max and Gabrielle. Gayle said Max missed him terribly as they share a room. Gabrielle was a positive force. She said she related Dominic's situation to the movie "Dolphin Tale," a story about a dolphin who loses her tail and is fitted with a prosthetic one.

Luke and Gayle said they were grateful to the Barrington community. The family is new to Barrington, having moved from Buffalo Grove just last year. The school community has been particularly supportive, Luke said.

"The Barrington community has done so much," Luke said. He said continued prayers are all the family needs now. 

See video of Dominic on his first day back at school.