Marina
At 18 years old, Coryion Franklin finally tells his story—one of unthinkable abuse, near-death trauma, and hard-won healing.
Once described by doctors as “one of the worst child abuse cases” they had ever seen, Coryion’s survival is nothing short of a miracle. Now, he wants to turn his suffering into inspiration.
Coryion’s Ordeal
In May, a nearly lifeless Coryion arrived at a Kansas City hospital, battered and broken. His condition was critical:
- Covered in cuts, bruises, and abrasions
- Infected ear, nearly swollen shut
- Missing nearly all his teeth
- Malnourished, hypothermic; fluid in his lungs
- Second-degree burns on forehead; fractured spine
- Evidence of being tied up; shoulder blade trauma likened to car crash injuries
He revealed even more horrifying details: his younger sister, manipulated by caregivers, had scratched him with her nails under threats of abuse. After each assault, he was forced to clean his own blood.
Hospitalization and Recovery
Coryion narrowly avoided death at least three times while hospitalized. He spent nearly 90 days in care, including time on a ventilator, fighting for his life.
Emerging from that trauma, he now looks at his scars as badges of survival. He’s returned to school, found work, and begun rebuilding the life that nearly slipped from his grasp.
The Perpetrators and Legal Outcome
| Person | Role | Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Penny Woods | Custodial caregiver | Multiple felony child abuse charges |
| James Griffin | Custodial caregiver | Multiple felony child abuse charges |
Both were arrested after Coryion’s rescue. The teen had been in their custody as his biological mother battled addiction. Now awaiting trial, the accused face serious legal consequences.
Coryion’s Strength & Message
Reflecting on his ordeal, Coryion was asked if he had a message for his abusers. His response was simply: “Why?” That single word captures the profound confusion and pain of a young man who endured unimaginable trauma at the hands of those tasked with his care.
Through his recovery, Coryion has emerged as a powerful voice for victims everywhere. He recently stated:
“My scars are my trophies.”
A Journey of Survival and Resilience
- Isolation and Voices in His Head: In the midst of incredible pain, Coryion resorted to speaking to himself—his only confidant during days with no other support.
- Hospital Battle: Nearly dying three times, he endured intensive care and rehabilitation, eventually crawling back to life and stability.
- Reclaiming His Future: Now thriving, he works part-time, has returned to school, and is actively reshaping his narrative—transforming pain into purpose.
Coryion Franklin’s story is not just about survival—it’s about courage. Rescued from abusers and slowly piecing back together his life, every scar tells its own story of resilience.
Now 18, he continues his journey of healing, speaking out, and using his voice to inspire and protect future victims.
In sharing his story, Coryion transforms suffering into a powerful testament of recovery—and his bravery lights the path forward for others.