Youngster in critical condition

[MajorMike]

I know it won't mean much to most of you, but I guess I have always believed in the power of positive thinking. I would request that if you are so inclined that you send thoughts of encouragement to young Aidan. His dad is a casual friend and member of my Oklahoma State message board (ostatesports.com).

http://media.charlotteobserver.com/smedia/2008/02/21/12/718-aidanwright.embedded.prod_affiliate.57.jpg

Essentially, Aidan drowned in a pond next to their home in Kannapolis, NC while they were setting up a birthday party for him. After much time and effort had passed, they were actually able to revive him, but are still unsure at this time how much damage has been done. He remains in critical condition at Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital in Concord, NC. Everyday there are new miracles, but he is a long way from being out of the woods.

If you would like to send e-wishes or a belated birthday card (Aidan turned 2 on Thursday) from yourself or your children, you can go to:

E LINK (http://www.cmc-northeast.org/e-cards/index.cfm)
You need the full name and it is Aidan W. Wright



Toddler still critical; family thanks helpers
GAIL SMITH-ARRANTS
[email protected]

The family of 2-year-old Aidan Wright said the boy was still in critical condition today after being found unconscious over the weekend in a pond near Kannapolis.

Aidan, who turned 2 today, disappeared Saturday as his parents and other family members were setting up an early birthday party for him at a residence on Hilton Lake Road.

The boy was taken to Carolinas Medical Center--NorthEast in Concord.

The family released a statement today thanking those who helped Aidan after the accident.

"The efforts and quick actions by immediate family members (father Russell Wright and grandmother Sonia Sinclair), as well as additional rescue personnel who later arrived at the scene, have been, and continue to be, greatly appreciated," the statement said.

"Today is his birthday. As of this date, Aidan has been stabilized, but his current condition remains listed as critical. He is receiving round-the-clock care by the dedicated staff at the Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital, and we, as a family, remain at his bedside.

"Many concerned people in the community and media have expressed concern regarding Aidan. Appreciating your interest in his condition and ongoing care, at this difficult time, we kindly ask for your respect of our privacy....

"Prayers and best wishes on behalf of Aidan are most welcome," the statement said, "and we greatly appreciate the numerous offers of support from so many people throughout the region."

In response to requests to assist the family financially, a special account in Aidan Wright's name has been established through any branch of Wachovia Bank


Toddler remains in critical condition


By Joshua Lanier
[email protected]
Friday, February 22, 2008





The family of Aidan Wright, the toddler who was found unconscious over the weekend after falling into a Kannapolis pond, said Thursday the boy remains in critical but stable condition.

In a written statement, family members thanked well-wishers and medical personal for their help during the past week. “The efforts and quick actions by immediate family members (father-Russell Wright and grandmother-Sonia Sinclair) as well as additional rescue personnel who later arrived at the scene have been, and continue to be, greatly appreciated.”

Aidan, who turned 2 years old Thursday, is being cared for at the Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital in Concord.

“Many concerned people in the community and media have expressed concern regarding Aidan,” the statement continued. “Appreciating your interest in his condition and ongoing care, at this difficult time, we kindly ask for your respect of our privacy. Prayers and best wishes on behalf of Aidan are most welcome and we greatly appreciate the numerous offers of support from so many people throughout the region.

“In response to numerous requests to assist the family financially, a special account has now been established through any branch of Wachovia Bank in Aidan’s name.


Cabarrus County

Family: 2-year-old found in pond still in critical condition

The family of 2-year-old Aidan Wright said he was still in critical condition Thursday after being found unconscious over the weekend in a pond near Kannapolis.Aidan, who turned 2 on Thursday, disappeared Saturday as family members were setting up an early birthday party for him at a home on Hilton Lake Road. The boy was taken to Carolinas Medical Center-NorthEast in Concord.

The family released a statement Thursday thanking those who helped Aidan after the accident. "The efforts and quick actions by immediate family members (father Russell Wright and grandmother Sonia Sinclair), as well as additional rescue personnel who later arrived at the scene, have been, and continue to be, greatly appreciated," the statement said.

After people in the community offered to help, the family set up a special account in Aidan Wright's name at all branches of Wachovia Bank. -- GAIL SMITH-ARRANTS

[Heath Ledger]

Damn man my thoughts are with him, i don't pray though so i can't really help in that regard, but i hope he comes out okay.

[Heath Ledger]

wow 100 views and only one response. ill bet if this was about britney the whole damn posse would make a post.

[mrsmaalox]

Oh how tragic! Children can make some pretty amazing recoveries. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.

[boutons_]

Good luck, Aidan.

[BacktoBasics]

I'm pulling hard for you little buddy.

[bigzak25]

Godbless the little guy. I hope he comes out okay.

[xrayzebra]

I know it won't mean much to most of you, but I guess I have always believed in the power of positive thinking. I would request that if you are so inclined that you send thoughts of encouragement to young Aidan. His dad is a casual friend and member of my Oklahoma State message board (ostatesports.com).

http://media.charlotteobserver.com/smedia/2008/02/21/12/718-aidanwright.embedded.prod_affiliate.57.jpg

Essentially, Aidan drowned in a pond next to their home in Kannapolis, NC while they were setting up a birthday party for him. After much time and effort had passed, they were actually able to revive him, but are still unsure at this time how much damage has been done. He remains in critical condition at Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital in Concord, NC. Everyday there are new miracles, but he is a long way from being out of the woods.

If you would like to send e-wishes or a belated birthday card (Aidan turned 2 on Thursday) from yourself or your children, you can go to:

E LINK (http://www.cmc-northeast.org/e-cards/index.cfm)
You need the full name and it is Aidan W. Wright

CaptMike. Call: 1-800-237-5055 and visit this website,
maybe they can really help. And God Bless this young
child.

http://www.shrinershq.org/

[ORION]

I can't imagine if this happened to my son. I hope he fully recovers. How did it happen ? I mean wasn't someone watching him?

[macdude06]

good bless aidan..we are all pulling for you

[PakiDan]

wow - a parnts worst nightmare. I hope he pulls through...

[FromWayDowntown]

All the best to young Aidan and his family. Such tragic circumstances will hopefully be offset by the fulfillment of a long life of happiness.

[Brutalis]

I'll pray for him.

People need to watch their kids better and this stuff wouldn't happen.

Best wishes.

[MoSpur]

My prayers are with him and his family. I pray God do a miracle in his life so that when Aidan grows up, he can tell them how God did a miracle in his life.

[DannyT]

wow 100 views and only one response. ill bet if this was about britney the whole damn posse would make a post.


dude there could be 10,000 views and only one post it this thread would have still served its purpose...its not about how many replies he gets its about the people who actually stop and say a prayer, write an e-card, or pay their respects in their own way...good luck little...I hate pools with kids around.... :pctoss :bang

[GaryJohnston]

I feel horrible for the little guy, and will pray for him, but damn, people NEED to watch their kids around water! Jeez!

[RashoFan]

I will say a prayer for Aidan and his family. May he recover quickly and fully and may his family have strength and find comfort during this hard time.

[ashbeeigh]

Aidan and his family/friends are in my prayers.

[missmyzte]

That's awful...
It happened to the son of a family friend, babysitter wasn't paying attention and he got into the spa somehow (even though it had a cover on it). I've seen what can happen, I hope and pray for better things for Aidan.

[dallaskd]

thats horrible. best of luck. im praying for ya!

[Heath Ledger]

sorry guys prayer does not help, havent you researched any of the scientific studies on prayer? It's bullshit. Religion is bullshit, god is bullshit. You might as well believe in the tooth fairy too. But in any case i hope the little one pulls through. But if believing in the invisible man helps you get through life..

[mrsmaalox]

sorry guys prayer does not help, havent you researched any of the scientific studies on prayer? It's bullshit. Religion is bullshit, god is bullshit. You might as well believe in the tooth fairy too. But in any case i hope the little one pulls through. But if believing in the invisible man helps you get through life..
Heath darling, I understand where you are coming from (;)) but there is an innocent child fighting for his life---if you don't want to pray that's understandable. But could you please help out with a little positive mojo? Thanks. And would you please save me the bunk next to yours? :eyebrows

[Heath Ledger]

your right..

[MajorMike]

These are the last 2 days' updates, starting with the oldest.


As of right now, Aidan is still on a ventilator. They are weaning him off of the sedatives so that they can remove the breathing tube, hopefully Saturday. He still isn't awake. He makes movements when the nurses move him or try to take his temp. He makes movements when we are in the room with him. This evening he was really moving his arms and when he does so his heartrate and blood pressure rise. I made the mistake of trying to read to him. I thought that hearing my voice would help settle him, but it only made it worse. The nurse told me that we needed to limit his stimuli right now since they are trying to keep him as calm as possible while they get him off the sedatives so we can get him off the vent.

His chest x-ray looked good this afternoon. Everything that we are hearing is good. It's just baby steps. He did have a seizure last night but they got it under control in less than 3 minutes. He hasn't had another one today. We were told this morning that he would most likely be on anti-convulsives for about 6 months or so, and he will have to have some kind of rehab (just not sure yet, until he's awake and we know what we're dealing with for sure).

I did meet the mother of a little boy who had a similar accident 5 years ago. At the time the little boy was 2 and he fell into the family's swimming pool. This little boy was in ICU for 15 days and when he went home he was blind in his left eye and he had to go through rehab to teach him how to walk and talk again. The mother picked the little boy up at school today and told him that they were going to visit someone and he said to her, "we're going to see that little boy who fell in the pond, aren't we?" She hadn't even said anything to him about it before then. The boy brought Aidan a little stuffed dog and a balloon. It was so encouraging to see him now at 7 as a healthy little boy with no signs of having such a terrible accident.

Today was Aidan's birthday and I could think of a million other things I'd rather be doing for my baby's birthday than sitting here in the hospital. This evening hasn't been the greatest for me. I can't help but feel useless just sitting here. I can't help but blame myself for not keeping Aidan safe. It's my job. I don't like anyone to take care of my kids, because it's my job. They're my kids and my responsibility. I could have done so many things different to keep him out of that water.

Logically, I know that I can't go back and change the past, and I know it's no one's fault, but, my heart feels guilty. Aidan is such a strong little boy and we're going to get through this. Russell is going to get a job soon and we're going to go on with our lives and be a family. Well, enough of my little pity party.

I do appreciate all of your prayers and the wonderful cards that are being sent. We read them to Aidan every morning. We'll update again tomorrow.




Not much to report today. Aidan is off the Versed and Fentanyl and has been moved to an anestethic. This is a much faster-acting anesthetic with a very short half-life. This means he gets knocked out quickly and once he builds a tolerance or the dosage wears off he starts to come around within 30 minutes. Aidan is still on the ventilator, but they hope to take him off of it tomorrow. They are still clearing stuff out of his lungs, but it is not mucous like before. They said it is more "frothy". He also has started showing a lot more movement, which is important. he also reacts a much more when stimulated.

The cards keep coming in for Aidan, which is awesome. We have received several cards in the mail, as well as numerous e-Cards from the website. These are greatly appreciated. I cannot begin to adequately thank everyone for the support and prayers we have received from across the country and even around the world thus far.




One other big thing going on is that he is actually breathing over the respirator. The is important in that it helps asses the likelihood of pulling the tube.



Aidan's scheduled for a follow-up MRI sometime today. Once again, they have to coordinate with the anasthesiologists. The results will determine whether or not they can remove the breathing tube today. They let us know that there is the likelihood that the tube will be put back in after it is taken out ... it all depends on how he does once the tube is removed.

Approximately 3:30PM will be exactly one week since Aidan drowned. Would love to have him extibated around that time and be breathing completely on his own. IMO, it would be sweet justice over the grave if that were to happen!

[blizz]

sorry guys prayer does not help, havent you researched any of the scientific studies on prayer? It's bullshit. Religion is bullshit, god is bullshit. You might as well believe in the tooth fairy too. But in any case i hope the little one pulls through. But if believing in the invisible man helps you get through life..

I'll pray for you too then.

[TheTruth]

He's in my prayers. Terrible thing to happen to a child. Glad to hear he's breathing over the respirator.

[MajorMike]

The MRI came back and apparently it looked good enough to justify extebating Aidan. They did that at 3:15 PM Eastern.

About 30 minutes later, Erin and I go back to see Aidan. His breathing was "rattled" (i.e., lots of noise from secretions) and his vitals were sky-high. We tried to comfort him, but it didn't work. The nurses also gave him Ropinol to help dry up those secretions. Even after several coughs, he was still bad. Dr. Black assessed him and determined it was best to re-intebate him. This was after 2 hours.

Fast forward 30 minutes again. My brother-in-law and I went back to see Aidan and he was no better: vitals still sky-high and respiration still high. Matt (the brother-in-law) left immediately. I stuck around and watched him as he continued to struggle. The nurse came in and informed me that a baby a couple of rooms down ws going south, so they were working on him at that moment. I stuck around a little longer then came back to the room. Erin then proceeded to tell me that she was taking Evan to urgent care.

[RashoFan]

I am glad to hear that the MRI came back with positive(good) findings. Aidan may need to stay intubated for a while longer until he can get alittle better, stronger, and gets past the frothy secretions. Please pass on my well wishes to the family. I pray they continue to have strength for themselves and Aidan. In my dealing with Health Care providers that specialize in Neonatal and Pediatric Care are the most dediacted, knowledgeable people. Those people will give Aidan THE ABSOLUTE BEST CARE THEY CAN!!! I respect those guys immensely!!!!!

[MajorMike]

Aidan has been put back on the Fentanyl (the anti-seizure medicine) as well as another medication (can't remember the name). This has got Aidan's vitals back to normal and he is resting comfortably. He also had a fever of 104, but they were able to get that controlled. They also have taken various cultures from his bodily fluids to see if anything in those caused that to happen.

[Spuradicator]

sorry guys prayer does not help, havent you researched any of the scientific studies on prayer? It's bullshit. Religion is bullshit, god is bullshit. You might as well believe in the tooth fairy too. But in any case i hope the little one pulls through. But if believing in the invisible man helps you get through life..

Athiest Thread, now shut the fuck up, you weak ass troll.

[MajorMike]

Today was a horrible day and really wasn't what we were expecting. I think, well, I KNOW, that I had an unrealistic image of what was going to happen and today those ideas got knocked down a rung or 10.

I want Aidan to be better NOW, even though I know it is going to take baby steps. Seeing him like he was today, struggling and agitated, just took a toll on all of us.

What I know is this- Aidan is a very strong(physically), very determined, strong-willed, little boy. He's hard headed and adorable all at the same time. He has the best and the worst of both Russell and I. He's fighting this right now, and he just needs more time.

Tomorrow is another day, and we'll see how it goes. The doctor told me we're looking at about another week in the hospital. That was before all the drama unfolded. So, we're probably looking at a little longer unless he starts responding better. Also, when he is released from the hospital, he won't be coming home right away. He will most likely go to a rehab facility for 6 weeks to 2 months (this was the Dr.'s initial though-not written in stone).

This is what I meant by my visions of what was going to happen got knocked down several rungs on the ladder to recovery. I knew that Aidan would need rehab when he came out of the hospital, I guess I just assumed that we'd be bringing him home and I'd be taking him every day to rehab. I know it's for the best, but I'm the control freak and it breaks my heart to be away from him.

I have cried about this almost all evening, I've worried about it, and I've prayed about it. I'm going to just trust that GOD is going to take care of Aidan and that he's going to come home to us. As my friend's little girl said, she had a dream about Aidan and Jesus told her that Aidan was going to be okay. That's the wisdom of a 3 year old.

I don't know why this had to happen to our little boy. I don't know why anyone has to endure this kind of tragedy. If anyone can be made more aware of how to keep their children safe around water then something good can come of our pain.

Russell and I both greatly appreciate all of the prayers and cards that have been sent. I know that I say this every time I write something but I'll never be able to thank you all enough. They bring me hope and help to renew my failing faith when things look bleak. Thank you all!

[LakerMagic]

Dude, what a horrible story

[MajorMike]

I know that Russell said he was going to take a break from posting for a few days, so I thought I'd just give you all a little update. There isn't much to tell, though. Since last night, Aidan has been sedated and his vitals look good. He's calm and resting. I was at home most of the day with Evan as he is sick with the flu, pink eye and an ear infection, so I wasn't able to talk to the doctors today. Russell did speak with the neurologist and from what he told me, they are planning to run another MRI in 4-5 days and they are going to do another EEG tomorrow.

I'm praying that everything looks okay tomorrow and that there are no further signs of seizures of damage. I'm worried about the toll of the stress from yesterday on his body, especially his heart and brain. I realize that we had to try to take him off the ventilator to see how he would react to it. I'm just hoping that giving him some more time to heal will allow him to stay off it for good next time without all of the stress on his body.

Other than that, it was a quiet day. He's resting and for now that is okay. Thank you for all the prayers!

Erin

[MoSpur]

I'll keep praying for him and his parents. I know God will pull him through.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

sorry guys prayer does not help, havent you researched any of the scientific studies on prayer? It's bullshit. Religion is bullshit, god is bullshit. You might as well believe in the tooth fairy too. But in any case i hope the little one pulls through. But if believing in the invisible man helps you get through life..


You're an idiot. Post this crap in one of the numerous non-believer club member threads but leave it out of here.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

We'll continue to pray for this little guy.

[Soul_Patch]

Sad story, i wish the best for him and his family.

[Ballcox]

Man, this kind of thing just breaks my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with this child and his family. I hope that he can make a full recovery and be a healthy kid having fun again.

[MajorMike]

Dr. Black met with me and then Erin this morning. He pretty much said the same thing to both of us:

Another EEG is scheduled for today. Hopefully there will be some improvement from the previous one. Another MRI will happen later this week. Pneumonia is pretty much gone according to the chest x-rays, though they keep getting cultures from his lungs just in case. He will be on antibiotics for another few days (10 days total, so most likely this Wednesday), then taken off. They also removed his Foley catheter and the arterial line they were using primarily for BP checks. The central line will be removed in the near future. Leaving these lines in result in infection.

They are looking to extebate again later this week or maybe even wait until next Monday. If all goes well, great. If not, Aidan will end up getting a tracheostomy as well as a gastric tube, which means two simultaneous surgeries. If that were to happen, he would have those for several months.

Rehab is looking at 8-12 weeks now. He has recommended we look for in-patient pediatric rehab centers that specialize in children with head/brain trauma. Cities he gave: Atlanta, Baltimore, Cincy, or Denver. This means moving the family to that area, staying most likely at a Ronald McDonald house, and me finding a job in the city we choose to move to. Does this mean a permanent move to that city? I have no idea. We also have no idea how we will be able to pay for it. Someone suggested we check with March of Dimes or some of the other charities that specialize in helping families with children. So now, my Internet searches will consist of finding jobs in those areas, as well as finding out about the various rehab centers.

Drs. Casseras (intensivist) and Farerras (neurologist) are taking over starting tomorrow. We'll see where things go from here with them in charge.

[MoSpur]

Wow. I pray that God do a miracle that if in fact the family needs to move, that God will open doors for them in a major way. I will continue to pray for this family. Thanks for the update.

[MajorMike]

I don't know for sure what is going on, but I do know they had a prayer vigil in his room tonite.

[RashoFan]

Do update us when you can. Get well soon Aidan!

[MajorMike]

The latest I have heard hasn't said anything about his condition. I think things are not going well and Russ has lost his job and, well and just things aren't very good in general.


emotion, memories, regret, soul, tragedy

Some of you may have seen or heard this phrase from me over the past week and a half and wonder what I mean by it. Allow me this opportunity to explain.

Many people equate the soul with feelings or emotions. Think of all the songs that mention the soul in this manner. For some reason, thinking of the soul makes the lyrics of the Billy Joel song "It's All About Soul" immediately come to mind:

It's all about soul
It's all about faith and a deeper devotion
It's all about soul
'Cause under the love is a stronger emotion
She's got to be strong
'Cause so many things gettin' out of control
Should drive her away
So why does she stay?
It's all about soul

Now, consider what happened that fateful Saturday, February 16. There are a million different emotions that are now forever associated with that sequence of events: anger, fear, hopelessness, distress, sadness, and likely many many more I have yet to discover. Consider how you felt when the worst moment of your life occurred. Now, multiply that by a significant number. How significant? I don't know ... maybe a googolplex? That is most likely how you would feel if your child ... your first-born ... your own personal miracle ... were suddenly in your arms and when you looked down, you saw death.

However, there's an interesting thing about emotions -- your soul, even. It can be suppressed. You can push aside those horrible feelings and focus on the positives happening amongst the tragedy (i.e., paramedics brought him back to life, vital signs are stable, reacts to stimuli, etc.).

Fast forward to this past Saturday. I was sitting alone in Aidan's room when the memories of that day started running through my head. Unfortunately, you cannot stop replaying the sequence of events when they start playing in your mind. As I relived diving in the water and flipping his lifeless body over to see lifeless eyes and ice blue lips, I couldn't hold back the tears.

So, go ahead and burn a memory into my soul ... I'll take a million and one of those over replaying that sequence of events in my mind's eye ever again. The sad thing is that it will always replay in those quiet moments when I look at my son and ask that dreaded question: "What If ...?".

[BacktoBasics]

I can't believe he lost his job. How unbelievably insensitive and disgusting.

[SpursWoman]

What a heart-wrenching story. I pray the little boy pulls through. :(


Why did he lose his job? This would definitely fall under FMLA, they'd have to hold it for 12 weeks... :wtf

[MajorMike]

Today, they tried again to back off Aidan's sedation. Erin said that he opened his eyes and even squeezed her and Mamaw Sinclair's hands. Unfortunately, he started getting agitated and ended up having several "episodes" before they decided to put him back on sedation.

We met with Dr. Cacerras (sorry, spelled his name wrong earlier) and asked him about the episodes. He said these were caused by his brain trying to wake up. More specifically, his autonomic nervous system was firing off and causing what equates to a sensory overload. He said that he has seen episodes like this before, but usually in older children rather than toddlers.

At this point, Dr. Cacerras is researching a drug to use the next time they start weaning the sedation that will help subside these episodes. The tentative date for this is later this week at the earliest, but could be as late as the end of next week. A lot depends on his response. Obviously, this is a very slow process.

On the rehab front, they have started to bring in occupational therapists to work on Aidan's arms/legs/feet/hands. They asked us to bring tennis shoes to put on his feet so they will not drop. Also, our social worker is looking into the rehab centers for us, though we have done a little research on some ourselves and we have also had recommendations for other centers (Memphis and OKC) from some of our friends.

My phone interview went well today. I will know about a second interview by the end of the week. I also got a call a little while ago for a face-to-face interview tomorrow at 2:30PM. This position is a short-term contract, but could run longer. Also, the pay is presumably better than I made at my last job ... a lot better. We'll see how that goes tomorrow.

[MajorMike]

We were heading home today from the hospital and, as I stated previously, we have started to listen to the local Contemporary Christian radio station in the area. On the way, I heard two songs that gave me a sense of hope amidst all of the chaos that has been occurring.

The first song is a praise and worship song sung by the group Tree63. The song "Blessed Be The Name" talks about how in both good times and bad, we should continually praise God for what we have. Granted, there have been times it has been hard to praise Him; however, I am beginning to understand this more and more. Below are the lyrics:

Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name

The second song I head is by Mark Schultz. Now, I don't know why it is that his music seems to speak to me just when I need a message from God. Previously, his song "He's My Son" gave me assurance that he was watching over Aidan when I felt discouraged about his prognosis. It didn't hurt that Erin and I both heard it three times within a 24-hour period.

Maybe it is because he is a Tulsa, OK native and I pay attention more to music when I know the artist is from my home state (gives me that connection to OK when I am way out here in NC). Maybe it is because he presents his messages in such a beautiful manner with his lyrics. Whatever the case may be, I heard another of his songs tonight that gave me hope. The song is called "He Will Carry Me" and it is a very powerful song if you ever get the chance to hear it. It speaks of how when you are at your deepest point of despair and/or loneliness, you can call out to Him and he will be there for you.

I call, You hear me
I’ve lost it all
And it’s more than I can bear
I feel so empty

You’re strong
I’m weary
I’m holdin’ on
But I feel like givin’ in
But still You’re with me

chorus:
And even though I’m walkin’ through
The valley of the shadow
I will hold tight to the hand of Him
Whose love will comfort me
And when all hope is gone
And I’ve been wounded in the battle
He is all the strength that I will
Ever need
And He will carry me

I know I’m broken
But You alone
Can mend this heart of mine
You’re always with me

chorus

And even though I feel so lonely
Like I’ve never been before
You never said it would be easy
But You said you’d see me through
The storm

chorus

I can now with complete confidence and assurance say that I know God is with me and my family and that He will take care of us. We have to remain faithful to Him and continue praying that God will heal Aidan.

[Flea]

My prayers are with that family. :(

[spurfan81]

CaptMike - any updates?

[jcrod]

Wow, first time i read this. My prayers are with them.

[MajorMike]

I'm just about to go into Aidan's room this morning, but decided to post regardign what happened last night. The Guest Wireless Access was down last night, which is why I am updating now.

Aidan is still having the occassional episode/storm, but none have come anywhere close to how the really bad one was yesterday morning/afternoon. In general, he is calming himself down, but they did have to give a bolus of sedative last night when I was in there with him. They are putting shoes on his feet to prevent them from falling. They are also waiting for splints to come in to put on his hands/arms so his wrists won't be permanently turned inward. They have also started turning him every couple of hours to help loosen anything in his lungs, as well as prevent hot spots and bed sores from forming.

I finally got to see him open his eyes on his own last night. It was kinda like watching someone wake up from a nap, but he didn't really respond when I tried to make him notice me (me and the nurse would try to put a hand over one of his eyes neither the other eye nor his head moved in response). Erin said he did this when she was in there, but she was able to get a response from him. Maybe he just wasn't as sedated previously.

At this time, the tracheostomy is scheduled for Monday. IMO, this is far later than it should be, but apparently this was the earliest the surgeon and the ENT Dr. could coordinate a time. This means watching him have these episodes over the weekend (ugh!) and hoping he doesn't have another really bad one. The nurse says that as long as they are able to get him successfully sedated, they have no reason to do the trach yet as an emergency procedure. Whatever. Here's an idea: How about sedating him as soon as his pulse gets over 180, not 3 hours later when it is over 200?!?!?!

Anyway, there is a meeting scheduled for 2PM this afternoon with all the Drs. and nurses so we can get all of our questions answered. I am going to try to record the session using my cell phone so I can thoroughly document the proceedings later

[laine]

I am impressed by your lack of medical knowledge. A trach is usually not placed in a child until 2-3 weeks after an incident. The trach is not going to make a difference in the frequency of storms he experiences. The trach is respiratory and the storms are neuro. Also, being in the medical field myself I know that during any type of seizure type activity which is what you see during these storms the heart rate will be erratic and may seem to be high when in fact it is not. I am sure these nurses and doctors are doing what is best for your child and should be commended everyday for their hard work. It appears to me that your child has suffered a severe neurological blow and is still alive today because of the care he has received. Just remember, when you point a finger at others there are three more pointing back at you!

[laine]

Sounds like parents that are talking about recording meetings are NOT thinking about their child but maybe a way to find fault in someone (money???). Again I say, who is to blame here?

[Heath Ledger]

Hey Fucktard Laine, the person updating us about the child is not actually posting on the forums so you are talking to yourself asshole.

[marini martini]

Sounds like parents that are talking about recording meetings are NOT thinking about their child but maybe a way to find fault in someone (money???). Again I say, who is to blame here?

I think the parents want to record the meeting, because they are too stressed with having their child in this condition, in ICU, hooked up to machines, tubes, and monitors. They want to make sure they can replay what they are being told, because in their frame of mind, it's hard to retain information. I, know, I've been in there.

[RashoFan]

.

[RashoFan]

Sounds like parents that are talking about recording meetings are NOT thinking about their child but maybe a way to find fault in someone (money???). Again I say, who is to blame here?


I think the parents want to record the meeting, because they are too stressed with having their child in this condition, in ICU, hooked up to machines, tubes, and monitors. They want to make sure they can replay what they are being told, because in their frame of mind, it's hard to retain information. I, know, I've been in there.
That is my thought as well....And I too work in the medical field, LAINE.
This family has been recieving emails, cards, prayers, and well wishes. I think the mom just wants to update everyone what is going on and would like to give accurate assessments and info. Be a good person and send a prayer or an ecard, thanks.

[MajorMike]

There have been no new developments in Aidan's condition. Russell has had a 2nd interview with a local company to find some work. We have had several people assure them that heartrates of 150-200 in little ones are not as alarming as in an adult. Russell has the flu pretty bad right now.

For those without a Wachovia bank in their area or for those that just find the internet easier, a PayPal account has been set up if you wish to use PayPal to make a donation. The email address is [email protected].

The family thanks you for your continued thoughts and prayers.

I will update more when I find out more.

[BacktoBasics]

I'm still shocked that this guy lost his job. What kind of person/business would do that to someone. I'm pretty upset about that, this world is sick. I wish I could send a letter to that former employer.

Thanks for keeping us updated.

[MajorMike]

update on Aidan's surgery:

We just met with Dr. Hoover about Aidan's surgery. He made it through the surgery without any complications. He now has a tube in his trachea as well as one in his belly (referred to as a "button"). He also currently has a NG tube for decompressing his stomach. All nutrition will be handled by IV during his recovery time and he will have the ventillator attached to his trach tube.

How long is recovery? At this time they have him paralyzed and he will remain that way for the next week. Therapists will still be able to work on his joints, etc., but he should not move on his own at all until next Monday. This means no storms (hopefully), but it also means he won't be interacting with us during that time.

This gives us about a week to come to a final decision on a rehab location. We're pretty sure we'll be going to the Carolinas Rehabilitation Center located within Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte, though. Right now, we're just happy he is out of surgery and recovering.

[mrsmaalox]

I am impressed by your lack of medical knowledge. A trach is usually not placed in a child until 2-3 weeks after an incident. The trach is not going to make a difference in the frequency of storms he experiences. The trach is respiratory and the storms are neuro. Also, being in the medical field myself I know that during any type of seizure type activity which is what you see during these storms the heart rate will be erratic and may seem to be high when in fact it is not. I am sure these nurses and doctors are doing what is best for your child and should be commended everyday for their hard work. It appears to me that your child has suffered a severe neurological blow and is still alive today because of the care he has received. Just remember, when you point a finger at others there are three more pointing back at you!
As a medical professional and a parent I am absolutely astounded by your total lack of understanding. God help the next human in crisis you come in contact with.

[MajorMike]

Erin and I just had a meeting with Dr. Black. Here is what we can tell you:

As stated previously, Aidan will be "paralyzed" (i.e., drug-induced) until Friday. At this point, they will start easing off the drugs and begin assessing how well he responds. The paralysis is so the trach will "mature" (i.e, the skin surrounding the hole can get used to it being there) and reduce the chance of any scarring.

Aidan has been placed on Clonidine in an effort to further control his sympathetic storms. This is being done transdermally (like a nicotine patch), and the patch works for a week before it has to be replaced.

Erin and I will have to learn how to change his trach tube. They hope to have us watch Dr. Hoover do the first one so we will have an idea of how to do this. Dr. Black assures us that once we learn, that it will be easy to do and we won't think much of it down the line. The best thing is that after the first change, we'll be able to hold him!

Dr. Black is looking at Aidan leaving PICU and moving to an inpatient rehab facility (we have firmly decided on Levine) by the middle to end of next week. Rehab time is still looking at 8-12 weeks, but he said to not be surprised if Aidan takes as little as 4 or as many as 16 weeks to get through this next stage of recovery. We hope to have him home and starting outpatient therapy by Evan's birthday (June 22).
We have another family conference at 1PM on Friday. Dr. Black wants to do these on a weekly basis for as long as we are at the hospital.

[MoSpur]

Keep us informed. I'm still praying for him.

[MajorMike]

10:15 AM -- Russell leaves for two interviews. He doesn't return until after 4PM. Erin has to stay in the sleep room "pretty much" all day (see next time stamp).

Noon -- After Evan went down for a nap, Erin goes to see Aidan. His nurse lets her know that they had taken him off of the medicine that was keeping him paralyzed. The reasoning behind doing this was because Aidan has a pretty large air leak around his trach and they are hoping that with him breathing more on his own it will help "seal" that leak. They also lowered his sedation meds. He was doing really well this morning, and was really calm this morning. When Erin was back there his heart rate was low and he was resting.

Sometime between Noon and 4PM -- The people from the Rehab Center come in to do an initial assessment. The case manager couldn't tell Erin for sure that Aidan would be accepted into the rehab program. They said the call was up to the doctors at the rehab.

4PM -- Russell gets back from his interviews (both went well, but he is leaning toward the latter one since it has the possibility of going permanent). The nurse comes in a little later to tell us that they took Aidan off the ventilator at around 3 and that he had been doing pretty good on his own, but was having some storming episodes. Erin goes back to see him, while Russell keeps an eye on Evan. Nana, Uncle Matt, Aunt Bev, and Mamaw arrive a short time later.

5PM -- Erin comes in with dinner and lets everyone know that Aidan had been having the storming episodes. The first bolus of Ativan was given at that time.

9PM -- After trying to feed Evan baby food, getting him to take a bottle instead and finally getting him to fall asleep, Russell comes to Aidan's room to check in after hearing Erin was crying. Aidan's heart rate was well over 200 again, and his respiration was over 100! This had been going on for 2 hours (2 hours previous, his heart rate was at 180). He was posturing severely (i.e, very rigid) and red as a beet (remember, elevated heart rate = elevated temp). Nana is holding one of Aidan's hands, while everyone was wondering why the hell nothing was being done. Russell was ready to have malpractice lawyers on speed dial and just about ripped the nurse and respiratory therapist (RT) on duty a couple of new bowels until Erin proceeded to rip him one and accuse him of being more concerned with listening to the Bedlam basketball game online (Pokes lost 68-56 -- damn) than Aidan's condition (for the record, Evan was fighting sleep and Matt doesn't do well when the kiddos are crying). Aidan's nurse proceeds to get on the phone in an attempt to get Dr. Black in STAT.

9:30PM -- Russell comes back in to the room after a few minutes. Dr. Black is there. He explains that he feels terrible about what is happening to Aidan, and can only imagine how we feel. Russell apologizes to the nurse and the RT, and the nurse proceeds to start crying not because he hurt her feelings, but rather because she feels as helpless as we do (it doesn't help that she, too, is pregnant). The RT is even tearing up. Obviously, the past 4 hours have taken an immense toll on everyone. Dr. Black assures us that Aidan is not getting any further damage from these storms. the "secondary brain damage" referred to in many of the documents we have read about this condition would only happen if he was not getting oxygen to his brain. His oxygen saturation has been at least 95% since they revived him. Dr. Black increases the drug dosages again, and orders boluses of Ativan to be issued every 2 hours.

10PM -- Erin leaves to go home after Aidan calmed down.

11PM -- Russell goes to Aidan's room to keep vigil. He was having a storm when he came in, but has since calmed down. His heart rate is back down to the 120 range and his breathing is much better at 40 bpm.

Everyone who has been keeping a prayer vigil over Aidan, we ask that you concentrate your prayers on ending these sympathetic storms. We will not be able to make ANY significant progress until those are COMPLETELY GONE and he is off the ventilator. We don't care what the intake people said about it being likely that he may not be admitted ... we want to leave no doubt that he is ready to go when the time comes. We can't even begin to describe how hard it is to watch him have these storms. Imagine the worst temper tantrum a child can have and multiply it by at least 20. The sad thing is that he can't control them and we're all helpless and can only sit and watch.

We appreciate everyones continued prayers. With them and God's grace, we've gotten this far. Things usually get worse before they get better, so we're hoping and praying that this is just the worst of it.

[MoSpur]

Thanks for the update. He's going to be fine. I believe God for that.

[MajorMike]

Dr. Corbier looked at the EEG and informed us that the scan showed more activity than the previous scan. This is interesting to note, especially since he is on even more sedation than his previous scan.

They are continuing to increase the meds again (Versed, Ativan, and Fentanyl) in an effort to better control the storms. We realize they likely can't completely stop the storms. Also, he is hypersensitive to touch. The nurses told us that even when they try to take his temperature under his arm, it does not take much to get him to go into a storm. Fortunately, they have been able to get enough meds in him to keep his heart rate under 180.

We are waiting for the nurses to finish rounds before we go back in to see Aidan again. After that, we'll likely head to the house so we can get a decent night's sleep. Since we have the meeting tomorrow morning, we want to make sure we are well-rested.

[clambake]

damn, you're doing a hell of a job hanging in. I'll pray.

[MajorMike]

We had another family conference this morning. Highlights:

Monday, they are going to insert a different trach tube. Aidan needs a longer tube because of his stature (he's barrel chested). They've ordered several different sizes and will try to get the best fit. They will be doing this under general anesthesia again and it will require that he is monitored for another week after the procedure. This also means another week before we can hold him.

Aidan has developed a sinus infections because of all the tubes and stuff and they are starting him on an antibiotic today to deal with that.
Dr. Corbier would like to get another MRI next week along with an MRS. He reiterated the fact that what damage we are seeing in the brain (the hypoxia) has still only shown up in the diffusion MRI scan. For those who are not aware, a diffusion MRI creates its images by measuring the amount of oxygen in the water molecules within the brain. The MRS will give them a better idea of what the prognosis is. Dr. Corbier did say that the areas that are hypoxic are reversible. The next MRI will give definitely give us a much better idea of what we're looking at.

Some new drugs are being added to the fray (Dantrolene and IV Clonidene along with the Clonidene patch). It will be another 72 hours or so for them to really access the effectiveness of the combination of medication. This is really all trial and error.

Aidan has started receiving feedings through his G-tube (they will also be able to start giving him some of his long-term medications through the g-tube as well)

Charlotte Rehab has not been cooperative. They said they would only take him for 2 weeks, and that would pretty much be to show us how to care for him. Needless to say, Dr. Black was livid! He has suggested we start concentrating on rehab locations out of state again. Russell had got a call from the Atlanta rehab center and he found out that they have scholarships available. The social worker is also going to look into other options within NC, the main one being Pitt County Memorial Hospital in Greenville, NC.

Dr. Black also wants to try to start weaning Aidan off of the sedatives (fentanyl, versed, etc) again, because he will not be able to go to a rehab facility on these medications.

We are looking at probably another 10 days to 2 weeks here in the hospital, at least. This is just taking a lot longer than any of us anticipated. Had Aidan not started having these sympathetic storms, everything would be a lot different.

I (Erin) just wanted to add that everyone here at the hospital has been wonderful. The nursing staff, the respiratory staff, the doctors, they've all been doing a great job. I know that this is stressful on them as well. I can tell that they all really care about Aidan, as I'm sure they do with all of their patients. This whole thing is just indescribable... the range of emotions that I feel. I go from guilt, to anger, to just sheer depression all in the same day, several times a day. I don't know that I'll ever understand why, or how- I just have to pray and trust that he's going to get better. It is very frustrating, though when a rehab facility that deals with brain injury doesn't think that your child is treatable.

On another note, Russell had another job interview this morning. He could possibly know something today. As for the interview that he had last week, it could be next week before he hears anything.

For now, this is what is going on. Aidan is currently calm and the symptoms of the storming episodes are under control. His heart rate is around 110 or so and his breathing is good. It's a little fast because of the trach (which is why they are changing it). He seems to be resting comfortably right now. We're just continuing to pray that these storms disappear and in the meantime we pray that the doctors have found the right combination of medications to control the symptoms of the storms.

[marini martini]

God bless you and your family. Sounds like the angels are with you. Expect miracles! You are in my prayers.

[MajorMike]

Aidan had a good night last night. Russell and I left the hospital and went out to dinner at Logan's Roadhouse. We actually ran into our social worker, Betsy, there. We came back to the hospital and sat with him for a few hours. Russell read a few chapters of Narnia to him and he was calm the entire time.

We went ahead and went home for the night and got back to the hospital early this afternoon (the time change really messes me up). The nurse said that Aidan had just calmed down from having a pretty bad storm that lasted about 2 hours. She said that the doctors had decided to adjust his medications a little more. I think he had one other storm during the night, but I don't think it was very bad.

On a good note, his nurse said that this morning when she and another nurse were moving and changing Aidan he had his eyes open and she felt like he was actually looking at her, she started talking to him and said 'hey, Aidan.' and he smiled at her. The other nurse saw it too. He even smiled at Russell this afternoon. I haven't seen it myself, yet.

He's had several storms today, and they've started him on another medication, bromocryptine. I'm not exactly sure what it does specifically, but it works in conjunction with the other meds to help control the storming.

The neurologist came in to check him and he said that he thinks Aidan is getting better. His last EEG show more brain activity and he's wanting to get another MRI done later in the week.

Aidan is scheduled to go down into surgery at 7:30 in the morning. That may change if they have outpatient surgeries.

I'll post more later.

[spursfan09]

Good to hear he smiled. Why does he have these storms? His brain trying to completly wake up? I've been thinking of him alot, and he's in my prayers.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

As a medical professional and a parent I am absolutely astounded by your total lack of understanding. God help the next human in crisis you come in contact with.

Some people are born assholes Mrs.M. I'm convinced that it's in their DNA.

[MajorMike]

We don't even know where to start with this entry. Aidan had several storms overnight that weren't too bad. Mainly just the rigid posture/stiffening up. This morning when Erin got to the hospital he was having another storm. They are having a hard time getting the vent tubing to stay on the trach tube and it pops off continually. Dr. Caceras came back on duty today so everything is being changed up again. They are switching most of Aidan's meds from IV form to oral form so that they can be given to him through his G-tube. That is a step in the rehab direction. Dr. Caceras doesn't want to give Aidan the morphine to help calm these episodes. He wants the nurses to give him Ativan and then Fentanyl and then if those aren't effective (which they usually aren't), then they can try the morphine or propofal(sp?). Right now, the morphine is working to calm him down.

It's a lot to try to keep up with, and frankly, we're getting frustrated with it all. Either Aidan is completely drugged up to keep him from having the storms or he is more alert and constantly has them. He can sometimes calm himself, but for the most part he only calms down for maybe 5-10 minutes, sometimes it's less than a minute before he's back into it.

If they were able to get them under control to the point that Aidan is only having one or two episodes a day, we can deal with those. He could go to rehab and they can work with him. But to constantly have these things unless he's just completely out of it ... we don't see how they are going to do anything with him in rehab.

We just don't understand it all. We're praying for these storms to just go away completely so we can move on to the next stage. We think the best thing for all of us to realize is that Aidan is not going to just jump back from this. It's going to take time, a lot of it, and he may never be like he was before the accident. But then again, he can surprise us all and come back completely. That is what we're hoping and praying for. We miss our little boy.

[MoSpur]

Tell them to keep praying. I am praying still.

[Ballcox]

I keep praying for this kid every day, I just can't imagine what the parents are going through right now. My heart goes out to them.

[Fat Bones]

I keep praying for this kid every day, I just can't imagine what the parents are going through right now. My heart goes out to them.

Same here, this is first thread I look for when logging on, and I open it hoping for the best but dreading the worst.

[MajorMike]

I went into Aidan's room this morning about 10AM. The nurses informed me that he had been storming since 8:30AM. Once again, his respiration rate was high, but his heart rate was normal.

Dr. Caceras came into Aidan's room a little later this morning and told me a lot. Hopefully I got it all:

The central line had been removed recently due to Aidan having a high fever. When they pulled this, his fever started going down some. As a result, they cultured his blood and started him on antibiotics. That is almost completely cured
They are trying to get Aidan more awake. They feel this may help with the healing of his brain, but we are wondering how this is possible when he has 4+ hour storms
His Ativan has been moved to his G-tube along with some of his other drugs (Colace, antibiotic, etc.). They had also taken him off the Versed, but it is back on now.
Feedings have started again, and he will be on full feedings by tomorrow.
The MRI/MRS is scheduled for sometime tomorrow morning (not sure of the exact time, but it should be mid-morning unless an emergency pops up).
They have setup a protocol for administering certain drugs should a storm start lasting too long. They issue each drug then wait an hour before giving the next drug. The order of the drugs is: Ativan then Fentanyl then Propyphol (sp?).
Aidan is off the ventilator more now, though they may put him back on it of an evening. He still gets oxygen, though. I may try to hold him a little later today.
Next family conference is scheduled for midday Friday (11:30 or noon). I don't have a definite time yet, but may later today or first thing tomorrow.
Frankly, things have started to get more difficult for me. This Sunday will be one month since the accident. I can't help looking at Aidan and while thinking of how far he has come along, also think of how far he have yet to go. It is depressing, demoralizing, and just flat-out difficult to deal with all of this. While sitting in the room with him, his Aunt Regina, and his great-grandma and great-grandpa, I bowed my head. I could barely pray, I was so tired and emotionally drained. I am doing everything I can to remain strong and keep up my faith, but it has not been an easy week. Last family meeting, they were looking at two more weeks here. I'm really afraid that it is going to be closer to two more months. I know Aidan needs a lot of prayers, but please pray for me and Erin that we will be able to get through this very difficult time. Also, concentrate prayers tomorrow morning on Aidan that we will have a good result from the MRI and MRS scans.

[RashoFan]

My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to Aidan and his family!

[MajorMike]

I just wanted to post a quick update, but I don't want to get into everything until we have our meeting with the doctors tomorrow morning. Aidan's MRI/MRS scan was this morning. There were a lot of changes from his last scan. These were not good changes. The lack of oxygen to Aidan's brain has caused some of the areas we mentioned as being hypoxic on the last scan to infarct (die). My brain shut off after hearing cerebral palsy and coma for a long time.

Right now we all are just trying to deal with this and come up with questions to ask the doctors tomorrow.

On a more positive note, Aidan is still off of the ventilator and is doing pretty well. He is still having the storms but they are less severe and he is better able to calm himself and get rest without having to be given large doses of extra medication to sedate him.

We just ask that you continue your prayers. We don't know how severe any of this damage is right now, and I don't think the doctors can even tell us much at this point until they get him more awake and we move on to rehab.

Thanks for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. We'll post more tomorrow afternoon.

[Soul_Patch]

I am going to raise some controversy here, but i think (and grant it, i dont know because im not there) if this was my son, I'd rather him pass on and be peacefull, than to live a life like this.


This is just a long agonizing march to the inevitable, and it is soo sad...


my heart really go's out to these folks, and most importantly that poor young boy who's life has ended so abruptly.

[MajorMike]

As we knew, from yesterday, the results from the MRI were not what we were hoping for. The MRI showed that Aidan's brain has atrophied (shrunk) and that several areas deep in his brain (basal ganglia) have infarcted (died). During the meeting Aidan's doctor told us that his goal is to get Aidan off as much of the sedative drugs as possible and get him "awake." The neurologist (Dr. Ferraris) said that cerebral palsy is possible and that a prolonged coma is possible. From my understanding, she is making it sound as if Aidan will be in a permanent vegetative state. We also spoke with the social worker and none of the rehab facilities are willing to take a chance on Aidan. They are only willing to take him for a week or two so that we can learn how to take care of him at home. Our other neurologist, Dr. Corbier, came in after the meeting and spoke with us. He seems a bit more optimistic and is upset that the rehab facilities have just written off Aidan's case. He is definitely willing to try alternative therapies and has asked us to make a note of Aidan's responses to the medications he is given so that he can come up with a different drug protocol for him, since some of the medications don't seem to be effective. He also wants to try to preserve the rest of Aidan's brain function by treating him with antioxidants, etc. I mentioned some of the research I've found about Hyperbaric Oxygenation Therapy and CranioSacral Therapy and he knew about both. I think that he would be willing to try either type of therapy for Aidan in addition to other therapies.

At this point, we are all just very overwhelmed by the meeting today. We are disheartened by the results of the MRI and are still praying for the best outcome.

Aidan did have some storms today, but he was able to calm himself down and from 4pm until about 9pm or so he was sleeping peacefully. We even saw him smile and yawn in his sleep several times.

We called his nurse just a little bit ago and she said that he did have a little storm but settled himself back down after they changed his diaper and went back to sleep.

After everything that happened today and as horrible as I've felt, seeing Aidan smile in his sleep while Russ and I were stroking his hair made me feel a million times better. Knowing that he was able to settle down without medications is a big relief as well. He will be completely weaned off of the Versed tomorrow. They've been decreasing it by .1mg ever 8 hours. When we left he was at .2mg, so by 10am tomorrow morning he will be off of it completely.

I just pray that he has a good weekend, and these storms continue to calm and he is able to find his way back to us. Aidan is such a shining light and has such an amazing, happy personality. You can't help but fall in love with him. I just hate to think that we may lose that.

Please continue to pray for him, and our family. I, personally, have been having a very hard time keeping my faith through this. We appreciate everyone's prayers, love and support since this whole ordeal began. We'll continue to try to update on his condition each day.

[MajorMike]

Aidan had a pretty good day yesterday. He had a few episodes of 'storming' but they really weren't too bad. A few of them I wouldn't even consider storms because he seemed to be upset and crying. He opened his eyes a lot more yesterday and looked around without getting upset.
The only time he got upset was when he had to have his diaper changed.

Russell, my mom and I got to hold him yesterday for the first time. I held him first and for a while he was relaxed but he got upset and you could tell he was crying. I don't know if it is the neurological problem that triggered it, or if he's just confused and scared maybe. It is heartbreaking, but it was so good to hold him again.

I've begun looking into alternative therapies and will talk more with his neurologist on Monday to see what he recommends in addition to the standard rehabilitation therapy. I'm willing to do anything at this point to make Aidan better. I know the chances of him being like he was are slim to nil, but I have hope that we can get some of that back. He's a tough little boy with an infectious personality.

We got some pictures of us holding him and I will add a few to the photos.

Thank you all for the continued prayers.

[MajorMike]

http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/photos/photodir2/aidanwright/large/74c0aba118aa4027e86f1f.jpg

[marini martini]

I am going to raise some controversy here, but i think (and grant it, i dont know because im not there) if this was my son, I'd rather him pass on and be peacefull, than to live a life like this.


This is just a long agonizing march to the inevitable, and it is soo sad...


my heart really go's out to these folks, and most importantly that poor young boy who's life has ended so abruptly.

Such a sweet little soul! Hope all ends good for this little fella!

[MajorMike]

I just left Aidan's room a short time ago, and on my way out was handed a huge stack of papers. This is a list of all of his medications and information about each of them. There are 11 different meds total (This will most likely change as time goes along, especially when the Fentanyl is eventually eliminated. -- Russell). The nurses showed me how to give Aidan his medications this evening through his g-tube. It wasn't that difficult, but I'll probably need a checklist to follow the first few times I have to do it on my own at home.

It's nice to feel like I'm not completely unable to do anything for him. I've been feeling like I'm just in the way when the nurses come in to do their thing. It's all just very overwhelming. Never in a million years did I think I would be in this position.

I keep trying to have faith that Aidan is going to get better. He's made it this far when his doctor didn't think he'd even survive the first day. He's here for a reason, and I hope he proves everyone wrong and we're able to come back and see these nurses and doctors and show them how much progress he's made. Aidan has a ton of angels watching over him, and I've said it before ... He's a Miracle.

We have received numerous inquiries about assisting our family financially during this time. In response to those inquires, an account has been setup to help with Aidan's expenses. Due to problems with the bank processing deposits to the appropriate account, we decided it best that if you wish to make a donation, it will be best to mail it to us directly.

Our address is:
Aidan Wright % Russell Wright 1700 Cline School Road Concord, NC 28025
For those that find the internet easier, a PayPal account has also been set up if you wish to use PayPal to make a donation. The email address is [email protected]

[MoSpur]

Thanks for sharing. I'm still praying.

[MajorMike]

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2008 11:25 PM, EDT
I tried earlier this afternoon to update the journal but the internet connection at the hospital timed out on me and I lost everything that I had typed.

Aidan has had a pretty good day. He's had some storms but has calmed himself very well. Dr. Black has discontinued all IV meds. This means that Aidan is no longer getting the Fentanyl to sedate him if a storm gets bad. They want to see what he can do on his own.
Also, his meds are being revised again. This is going to be an ongoing routine, I think, until we find the right combination. They are taking away the meds that they don't feel are as effective and increasing those that are. As I mentioned yesterday, Aidan is on 11 different meds. That's a LOT for a 2 year old. We are adding some antioxydants to the mix. Vitamin C and Co-enzyme Q-10.

Aidan had to have another catheter inserted last week, but it was removed today, although he will have to continue being cathed because he isn't emptying his bladder well on his own. He had been but I think the tension from the storming and posturing are making it more difficult now. He also has something called C-diff. It's a bacterial infection in the intestines caused from taking antibiotics for so long. It is very contagious so we have to gown and glove up when we hold him or change a dirty diaper.

I held Aidan twice today and both times he fell asleep on me. It was nice to know that I was comforting to him, but he is so HEAVY! My arms fell asleep both times. Russell and I have learned how to give Aidan his medications through his g-tube, I know how to suction his trach, and I helped change his trach today. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be, but it's something I never thought I would do. I was afraid of doing the trach change because I don't want to hurt Aidan, but it was really quick and easy.

We've gotten responses back from some of the other rehabs as well, and they are all saying the same thing. They can only offer a few weeks and because of funding they really think that we should stay in the state. So it looks like we'll be going to Carolina's Rehab in Charlotte. The case manager is coming tomorrow to review Aidan's chart again and we should know something in a day or so.

Russell still has not had any luck finding a permanent job. He has an interview in the morning, so please say a prayer for us that he gets a job soon that will support our family. Having him around 24/7 through this whole ordeal has been a blessing despite not having an income for over a month now, but the bills are not going to pay themselves.

Today has been a particularly stressing day for myself. The grief that I feel is enormous. I feel like a part of myself has died, even though Aidan hasn't. All of the things I had hoped and dreamed for Aidan before this accident are gone. A part of him is gone and we may never get it back. I have to come up with new hopes and dreams for him now, and pray for a miracle for his shining personality to come back to us. I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but I miss him. I can hold him and I can love on him, but he isn't able to hug me back or give me his little kisses. He used to sit in my lap and kiss me over and over and over until I had to tell him stop, or that it was enough.... looking back, it could never be enough. I miss the way he'd run up to me and wrap his arms around my leg to give me a hug, and I miss his gabbering because he absolutely refused to talk. I know that Aidan is a strong, tough, and stubborn little boy. I'm praying that he has enough fight in him to prove the doctors wrong. God has blessed us with the love and support of our friends and family and perfect strangers. He's graced us with the miracle of Aidan's conception and his survival from this accident and we're praying for even more miracles in Aidan's recovery and in his life.


We greatly appreciate all of the prayers, love and support we've gotten from you all, and we ask for your continued prayers.

[Mijo]

I've been following thread for awhile now. They are complete strangers to me yet it breaks my heart when I look at the photo to the point my eyes well up with tears. I hope he is able to recover...

[MoSpur]

Thanks for the update. "Weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5

I know that morning is going to come soon for that family.

[MajorMike]

For the first time since the doctor attempted to extubate Aidan, he had a peaceful night without storming. I am so relieved that my baby finally was able to rest through the night. Russell was with him at the hospital last night.

My faith is being slowly renewed. Russell was telling me that he had an overwhelming urge to pray for Aidan last night after he had gone to bed. He sat up and prayed for Aidan and again, put everything in God's hands. I also had the overwhelming urge to pray for Aidan last night, and as hard as it was for me to do, I did the same thing. I put it all in God's hands. Despite what I want for Aidan, God knows best, and he has his own plan for Aidan. I know that, I just have a hard time giving up control. I asked for healing, I asked for a miracle, I asked for my baby to smile and laugh and recognize me again. I prayed for the storms to calm so that the therapists can help him more and so that we can work with him too. I asked for him to be responsive to our voices and our touch and for him to start making movements on his own. I just have to trust that God will provide. (When I talked to Erin on the way back from the morning interview that never was, I found out we had the urge to pray happen at the same time. It's amazing how God works! --Russell)

Russell has another interview today at 4PM Eastern, so I am hoping to get back to the hospital soon. I'm anxious to see how Aidan is doing today. I just wanted to share with you all this tiny little glimmer of hope.

Please pray that Aidan continues to remain calm and that the storms improve and go away and that his muscles are able to relax. Pray that he is able to start coughing and gaging so that he can eventually have the trach removed. Pray that he starts responding to us now that they are decreasing his sedatives and other meds. And please pray that Russell finds a job soon. Thank you, everyone!

[MajorMike]

Thanks for the update. "Weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5


Thank you, I will pass that along.

[MoSpur]

Do that. I'm not letting go.

[MajorMike]

Another few baby steps that for some reason I've failed to mention. Aidan has been swallowing. To me that's a big thing. It means he's able to deal with the secretions (saliva, etc) on his own. He has not been coughing as much as we'd like to see him, but we are praying for that to improve. Also, Aidan has been moving his toes and his foot when we tickle it. He doesn't move it much, but it is a step in the right direction.

Today, Aidan had some small storms. Usually when he was upset because he had a dirty diaper or his bladder was full. He was able to calm himself down after a while too. I put in a movie (Curious George) for him this evening and he settled down and opened his eyes for a while and looked around and then fell asleep. He woke up because the nurse moved his head to check his trach and it upset him, and he had a dirty diaper. Once that was changed he was fine.

As I mentioned yesterday, they have been straight cathing him because he hasn't been emptying his bladder completely. They brought in a chair called a 'tumbleform' for Aidan to try. It fits him perfectly, but he got very upset about being put in it. His legs are so stiff that it makes it hard to work with him. We're going to keep trying to sit him in it. I'm sure his little body aches from being in the bed for almost 5 weeks and being so tense all the time.

We met with the neurologist, Dr. Corbier, today at his office to talk more about the alternative treatments that we've read about. We mainly discussed the antioxidants, but we discussed others as well (craniosacral, hyperbaric, accupuncture/accupressure, etc.). I feel a little better today knowing that Aidan rested well last night and when I left him an hour ago he was resting comfortably and had been for almost 2 hours.

He looked so peaceful and sweet. I wanted to just pick him up and love on him. He looked like he was asleep in his bed at home. I wish that's where he was.... I see his little car bed and I can't help but feel a huge pang of sadness.

I've been reading on another site that was posted on here in the guestbook about a little girl who had a similar accident as Aidan. It has been very insightful and has helped me greatly, and in many ways I relate to her even though our experiences are somewhat different. It's a lot of reading but if you are interested the site is www.prayforabby.com.

I ask that we focus our prayers on calming the neuro-storms, and for Aidan's muscles and body to relax so that the therapists can work with him. Also, pray that he begins making more movements on his own.

[MoSpur]

Thanks for sharing. I can related to these people in a way. Its been a couple of years since my sister had a stroke. We almost lost her, but God saved her. We had to be patient. Very patient. She was in the hospital for a long time and then in rehab. She is finally home and trying to live a normal life as possible. It was a long road, but one well worth it.

They have to pray for patience. Again, thanks for sharing.

[MajorMike]

Today was an okay day. Aidan has had some episodes that I would consider storms and some that I would just call agitation. He gets upset when he has a dirty diaper and when his bladder is full (because he's not able to empty completely). He is usually able to calm himself in a short amount of time.

This morning he was really relaxed after having his diaper changed. His nurse had to give him an extra dose of one of the medications for the storming (not a sedative). It allowed him to calm down enough that he was able to fall asleep and his muscles actually relaxed enough for them to reposition him and change his diaper without getting upset.

Russell, mom and I went to a support group meeting at the hospital that our neurologist invited us to. The group is targeted toward autistic children, but also deals with other children with neurological problems. It was very interesting.

When we got back to see Aidan he was upset, but his trach extension had come off and his trach was completely covered so he wasn't getting enough air. He was very upset and once I got the extension put back on and got his neck dried off he calmed down and stared at Nana for a long time. The nurse said that he actually peed a lot on his own, which is great!

He's been much more alert and looks around, but he is not tracking objects. I don't know that he focuses on things, but he looks around. He really likes his fan we put in his room. It helps calm him down, but only if it's blowing on him (he's exactly like me). He calms down when his favorite cartoons are on TV, so I know he recognizes certain things. He was also swallowing a lot more today, and he yawned several times, and he moved his mouth kind of like he was chewing. He even made a cute little sound when he was yawning.

We're making baby steps... teeny, tiny baby steps. But I'm praising God for every one of them.

There is no family meeting this week, but we hope to talk with Dr. Black tomorrow since we didn't get to talk to him at all today.

Please continue to pray for Aidan, and please focus on calming the storms, his muscles relaxing so that it is easier to do therapies, his bladder continuing to work on it's own, and his continued progress however slow it may be.

[MoSpur]

Thanks. I am very pleased with what I read. Its awesome. PRAISE GOD!!!

[MajorMike]

As Erin stated in a previous post, we have been looking for various forms of alternative medicine to use on Aidan before, during, and after rehab. She found information on a therapy called Healing Touch. This and Reiki are both forms of energy therapy. After doing a search, we found a couple in the area and contacted them for more information. One lady emailed us back and then spoke with me Saturday. She said she would attempt to connect with Aidan's spirit within 24 hours, as well as relay our information to some therapists in our area that have a little more availability at this time. We are waiting for calls back from those individuals.

For those who are wondering, the lady I spoke with has a background in religion and is a Christian. She believes that what she does is no different from when Jesus laid hands on the ill. This site helps explain the connection between Christianity and Reiki and helps answer questions you may have. Also, Erin and I have a couple of friends who practice Reiki in Oklahoma; one is even a master level practitioner and has been performing distance healing.

In the meantime, she did make that connection with Aidan this morning and called to talk to us about it. She also emailed the text from the connection she made. That follows below. Aidan's response is in italics.

Precious Aidan, so many people are praying for you, your mother, your father, and your brother Evan. I hope you feel the love and light that surrounds you and reminds you of your forever connection with God.

A month ago you fell into a pond. You got water in your lungs and your brain did not get oxygen for a long time. All this caused your brain and body to forget its natural human abilities.

Your spirit is beautiful, Aidan. It still needs your physical body in order to be here on earth. You used to run and play as most two-year-old humans do. Right now your body cannot do that. Your brain needs to heal in order for your body to enjoy the freedom and abilities it is used to.

Your mid-brain has some dead tissue in it and your cortex is partially atrophic. This means those parts of your brain are not getting normal messages to your body. Your motor skills are compromised and your body is tense and rigid. That is why you are in the hospital attached to tubes and machines. That is why the doctors and nurses are giving you medication and doing all they know to help you heal.

Know that you have touched the lives of everyone in the hospital, Aidan. So many people know you and are praying for you.

Momma and Daddy, please do not blame yourself or anyone else for my falling into the water. I know you are heartbroken and have re-lived my tragic accident time and time again. Please turn those thoughts loose. Reliving my accident does not help any of us. Help me erase those images. Help me relax in the loving arms of God.

I love you dearly and I want to see you smile again. It must be hard to see me like I am right now but I still need you to smile at me.

I wish I could crawl up in your lap and be your healthy baby boy again. I am glad Evan has you to hold him and love him. I love him also and want him to remain healthy. I believe Evan is a wise soul. He is here to watch over us in many ways, although he needs you to care for him right now. Tell him his big brother misses him and loves him dearly.

Thank you for getting so many people to work with me, Momma and Daddy. I will accept everything they share with me and I will touch their lives gently and lovingly. I know my healing is part of everyone else’s healing so we all work on this together.

Aidan, every cell in your body contains complete memory of everything that has ever happened to you. Please give your body permission to release everything you no longer need. Thank your precious physical body for releasing the trauma of your drowning and all the negative disoriented energy that settled in your mid-brain and cortex.

We believe in miracles, Aidan. We believe your body can regenerate itself. We believe your mid-brain can release the damaged tissue and rebuild its circuitry. Just like the computer work that your dad does. A computer will not work well or at all if it is not plugged in. It will not work right if some of its circuits, some of its components are not connected properly. That is what is going on with your brain. It lost its life source and needs to be plugged in again. This is how we do that.

Aidan, remember how you were before you came to earth as Aidan Wright. Feel how light and perfect you were simply being in spirit, being with God and all the angels. That is the life force that can feed you now, that can reverse your traumatic brain injury.

God created this earth and all creation and made it part of His song. He will help you remember your unique song, Aidan. He will help you be within the creative, loving rhythm once again.

Listen to the heavenly music as it plays within your being. Feel its vibration and accept its healing energy. Let a rainbow of healing energy envelope you and comfort you while your body heals.

Your mother and father want to hold you and play with you again. Even though you cannot be on their laps like before, you can still feel them holding you and loving you. You WILL be able to sit in their laps again. Hold on to that truth.

Aidan, no matter what happens to your physical body, you are always and forever connected to God. His loving spirit is with you always just as your parents’ love is with you always.

Imagine God’s loving, healing hands being on your forehead and the top of your head. Feel his miraculous energy connecting with and recharging your brow and crown energy centers. Keep your mind and your heart open to all the healing powers of creation.

Much beauty surrounds you and mirrors to you your own precious loving beauty. See yourself whole and healthy. See yourself as the beautiful spiritual being you are enraptured by all the healing love that comes to you from your parents, your brother, your family and friends, and from millions of people who know you only through their prayers and thoughts.

Know that your doggies miss you, Aidan. Feel their tongues licking your face and drying your tears. Let your doggies lie down with you and ground the healing energies that come to you. They want to help you so let them gather everything they can to bring to you spiritually to help you heal.

Bear, Paco, and Max [our dogs ... she asked for names of any pets living at the home]: Aidan is in the hospital right now. He is hurt and needs you to understand why he is not home. He loves you and wants to play with you again.

We will do everything we can to help Aidan heal. We will be calm and peaceful and send that peace to you, precious Aidan. We love you dearly and hope you relax and feel the healing energy of our love.

Nurses, doctors, friends, and loved ones, thank you for helping Aidan. Thank you for allowing him to touch your lives and thank you for seeing his beauty and courage. Thank you for being part of his healing.

With love……………

I share this with everyone here because you are friends and/or family who have been keeping up with Aidan though this site. You have just as much an impact on Aidan's healing as we have here. We ask that you keep up with your prayers, but also ask Aidan to do what work he needs to do. Once you have asked, never ask again; begin thanking him for allowing his body to let go of the trauma done to his body and brain. Also, if you feel any guilt regarding the accident or continually replay the incident in your mind ... let it go. It does not help Aidan to keep putting him in that place continuously. I myself still work with this, even though I have forgiven myself for what happened.

As for myself and Erin, we may start looking into training in at least the first two levels of Reiki so we will be able to administer it to Aidan ourselves. We may also seek training in Healing Touch. Again, we appreciate everything everyone has done for us so far. There is definitely a light at the end of the tunnel, but right now it looks more like the sun from the perspective of Pluto.

[MajorMike]

Our boy is resting peacefully. It's so comforting to see him sleeping soundly. I have been reading about Abby, a little girl who nearly drowned 4 years ago (www.prayforabby.com) and I came across the blog site for a little boy who nearly drowned last year (http://prayforcaleb.blogspot.com). I started reading his page and immediately felt very connected to this little boy's story. I'm still trying to read all of the posts but when I am finished I plan to email his parents and tell them about Aidan. I think having other parents who have been where we are will help. It gives me hope that Aidan is going to be just fine. Both of these mothers have a strong faith in God and they have given me so much inspiration. Please, if you have the time read these blogs and say a prayer for them as well. I got the inspiration to start this page because of Caleb's page.

While reading the entries about Caleb, I saw that he is/was on valium for spastic muscles and I immediately said to myself, "I'm going to talk to Dr. Black about that when I get to the hospital." Right after I thought that, Russell called me to tell me that Aidan had been started on valium around noon. It seems to be doing very well for him because he hasn't had a storming episode all evening. He's gotten upset, but he's been able to calm down and his arms and legs are not nearly as rigid as they have been. The occupational therapist was actually able to work with him today. I'm so thankful for that.

God continues to answer our prayers. I just pray that the storms continue to calm and that our Aidan can shine through. We got a little glimpse of the life in his eyes this evening. He was calm and looking around at everything. He even looked AT me. He's also been coughing, which we are so happy about. That means we're just another step closer to him being able to have the trach removed at some point in the future. (we've been afraid he'd have to have it permanently) .

I just wanted to share this good news. Thank you so much for your continued prayers. I'm so grateful to everyone for their love and support.

[MoSpur]

Thanks for the update. I keep praying for him and his family. I pray that his family never let go of their faith in God. They can move mountains with faith.

[MajorMike]

Aidan slept/rested well all night last night. He only woke up or got upset when his diaper needed changed or he needed to be repositioned. He was able to calm himself down and didn't go into a storm. All I can say is praise God! I don't think the storms are completely gone, but the medication is helping keep Aidan calm and is giving him more control over them.

Although the valium is a sedative, he's still very alert when he's awake. His eyes are wide open and he looks around the room. I bought him a huge Thomas the Tank Engine balloon last Friday and put it at the foot of his bed. He's been looking at it. He's also been following our voices. He'll look in the direction of the person talking and will occasionally actually look AT me.

It's taken me a while to get this posted as I've had to take several breaks to help with Aidan. The new trachs came in today so we were able to change his old one out with a new Buvona that fits him much better. The difference is like night and day. That is another prayer answered.

A meeting is being planned for Thursday for us to meet with our doctors here and also with the doctors from the rehab center so we can all make sure we're on the same page as far as Aidan's care goes. Our social worker here, who is just WONDERFUL, is getting the paperwork started for a program called CAPC which will help us with some of the medical supplies and care we'll need once we get home.

There is so much stuff to think about and plan for. We're going to have to have a special bed for him and all of the equipment we'll have to have. It just makes my head swim. I thought I needed to have a lot of stuff when he was a newborn! They've mentioned wheelchairs and things like that. I'm thinking how are we going to get a wheelchair in our van.... I'm looking at buying a new stroller to use for both the boys. I want to get one that is a side by side jogging stroller with the swivel front wheel. I think one like that will work well for a while so maybe we can hold off on a wheelchair (maybe).

Aidan had another reiki session today. Since then he's been really calm and relaxed. His heart rate is actually pretty low right now and he is sleeping well. We've been so blessed with the outpouring of love and support from everyone. I know that some might not agree with our choice of trying some alternative types of therapy, but from everything I've read it can be beneficial and I know that from the short session I had, I feel much better-just centered, I don't have the overwhelming sense of stress or guilt that I was feeling before. I'm ready to move on to the next stage and get Aidan home.

Thanks everyone. We'll be keeping you all updated.

Please continue to keep Aidan in your prayers. He's coughing a lot more today, which is a good thing. Please pray for him to be able to respond by looking and comprehending what he is looking at. Bless you all!

http://bp1.blogger.com/_sw9MOkj0NQM/R-nFRfTJLrI/AAAAAAAAABM/ynk-95XHiQw/s320/March+20+002.jpghttp://bp0.blogger.com/_sw9MOkj0NQM/R-nGKPTJLsI/AAAAAAAAABU/vs_fRyvo3iM/s320/March+25+015.jpg


Tuesday, March 25, 2008
a few pictures
I wanted to post a few pictures of Aidan. The first is one I took of Aidan on the 20th, and the other is one my mom took this evening as Aidan was trying to fall asleep. He's been doing so much better the past few days. He's making amazing progress and I'm looking forward to getting out of the hospital and into rehab and then finally home with him. (No offense to the PICU staff- they are great!)
When I left Aidan this evening he was trying to fall asleep (his usual bedtime of 8pm, for a change) and my mom and I had to change his diaper. He only got upset when we had to raise his bottom up and then he settled right back down and went back to sleep. I pray that he sleeps well tonight and that we continue to see more progress in him as the days continue.

at 11:35 PM

[MoSpur]

Wow. I am so glad to hear the report. Thanks.

[MajorMike]

I came in this morning and Aidan was agitated, but only because they had just changed his diaper. The nurse said he had another great night and only gave problems during diaper changes and position changes. Even then, he could still calm himself.

The nurse also informed me that the physiatrist had got back early. They got on the phone with her and she gave the all clear to move him to the Carolinas Rehabilitation Center at Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte. So, tomorrow morning (approx. 10 AM), they will transport him there to begin his rehab!

The turnaround he has made the past few days has been absolutely astounding! Whether it was the prayers, the reiki, the valium, or a combination of it all, I have no idea; however, I am so glad that he has made such great progress.

Right now, Aidan is sitting up in a Tumble Chair. Occupational Therapy put him in it and he is doing very well. The last time they put him in it, he was storming and very uncooperative. Now, he is actually sleeping! He looks very much like he does when he would fall asleep in his car seat.

For those who are wondering, this is what the Tumble Chair looks like.

http://bp0.blogger.com/_sw9MOkj0NQM/R-pyz_TJLtI/AAAAAAAAABc/uBHo6xN72WE/s320/SAM553X-XXT.jpg

There is a meeting scheduled for 2 PM today to do a "final debriefing" for here and prepare us for what to expect at rehab.

I want to take the time to go ahead and thank all the wonderful doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff here at the PICU of Jeff Gordon. All of you have treated us great and, most of all, believed in Aidan when it seemed at times like all hope was lost. I promise to get a picture of everyone who is here today or tomorrow and post it on here.

I also want to thank the First Responders who came so quickly to his aid that fateful day. I promise we will bring Aidan to see all of you sometime soon.

Most of all, I thank my mother-in-law for being a health professional first and Nana second. I would have never been able to do what she did knowing that it was my son I was doing it to. I love you, Sonia, and greatly respect you for what you do.

I also have to thank God for giving me the courage to jump in the pond to rescue my son, as well as the peace of mind to be able to talk to the 911 dispatcher when all hell was breaking loose around me. Maybe it was all my "training" through Boy Scouts that allowed me to go into auto-pilot that day, but believe me when I say it is a whole lot different when it is your child you are rescuing for real and not some First Class Scout or a Scoutmaster from another troop you are rescuing in a simulation.

Through it all, I have gained a much better understanding of my favorite verse in the Bible. What is my favorite verse, you may ask? Philippians 4:13.

He didn't quote it, but the passage is, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

[MoSpur]

Absolutely wonderful to hear. Make no mistake about it, God is working in that child's life and in that family. When man says its impossible God says, "nothing is impossible for me." I am still going to pray for this little boy and that family. Thanks for the update CaptMike

[spursfan09]

That is wonderful! God Bless you Aidan!

[marini martini]

Thanks for keeping us posted. I can't wait to read the post where Aiden goes to visit the First Responders and the PICU staff.

The family will still be in my prayers.

[Ballcox]

Man, that is great news. I will keep Aidan in my prayers on a daily basis and continue to pray that he just gets better and better each day. He's a special kid!

[MajorMike]

40 days and 40 nights.......
We are now at Levine Children's Hospital! It was bittersweet leaving the hospital. As you can see from my title, we were in the PICU at CMC Northeast for 40 days. We had so many awesome people there working with Aidan. Everyone was so great to us, we're going to miss seeing them and I know that they will miss Aidan. We will definitely go back to visit (JUST visit).

Today has been a good day, but it's been stressful on me. Aidan actually settled in well to his room. He's sleeping right now. We've met with the doctor and the nurses, but have yet to meet the actual therapists, although I'm sure we'll meet them either later today or tomorrow when they come to do their assessments.

Right now, I don't have much to tell. I got an email from Teresa, Samuel's mom (www.samuelsmiracle.com). I was actually going to email her once I got finished reading Samuel's story, but she beat me to it. She stressed the importance of getting Aidan started on hyperbaric oxygen therapy. I completely agree and hope that we can talk with the physiatrist about it since Dr. Corbier suggested it too.

We will be able to post more later, but I just wanted to let everyone know that we're settled in here now. Evan is with my aunt Regina (aka, the "baby hog"), but he will be able to come up here to see Aidan and we can possibly include him in some of the play therapy sessions.

That's all for now. I'm amazed that we are at this point... I would still rather go back and make it all go away and go back to our normal life, but God has other plans for us. Please continue to keep Aidan in your prayers. We love you all!


Friday, March 28, 2008
Rehab begins today!
Today marks the official start of the newest chapter in Aidan's life. He has several evaluations scheduled, and we will likely have meetings with the social worker, Dr. Wunderlich (the physiatrist on duty) and others.

We'll fill you in with more information once we have met with all of the therapists and doctors today. The Occupational Therapist just came in and after she reads up on Aidan, she will begin her evaluation.

[MajorMike]

This will be my last post in this thread. When I get the next update, I will title a new thread: "Follow Aidan's Recovery." The hope is to leave the frightful days in the past and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. I will link this thread in the new one, so you are able to look back and reflect if you wish.

Aidan's family thanks you for your continued support.

[MoSpur]

Praise God. God is taking Aidan from Glory to Glory.