Owen Fouts Super Hero Owen

On July 23, 2010 our lives were changed forever.  Our 16 month old son, Owen Michael, fell into our swimming pool and was without oxygen for a period of time.  CPR was started immediately, ambulance was called and Flight for Life was utilized to transport him to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. 

When we arrived at Children's we were told that because he was without oxygen he had indeed suffered many significant injuries.  His kidney and liver functions were low, he was not breathing on his own and was intubated, but most significantly because of the lack of oxygen to his brain there was much concern about swelling in his brain.  The doctor told us that the next 72 hours would be critical to see how his brain would respond.

We are now almost 6 years out, from Owen's accident.  He is our warrior.  He has overcome so many obstacles and has continued to amaze us on a daily basis.  Owen is now 7 years old...he is cared for, at home, by us and a fantastic team of nurses that love him unconditionally and take great care of him.  Owen is in the 1st grade and loves going to school and seeing his peers, his little sister- who is now in kindergarten!, and his brother who is in 4th grade!  He attends school for half the day and one of his fantastic nurses goes with him.  He is fortunate to get OT, PT, Speech and Vision therapy while he is at school.

In the last 5 years Owen was diagnosed with a seizure disorder, has had VEPTR surgery for his scoliosis, he has had his heel cords released and his quads released- due to his extremely high tone. 

Owen is a miracle, but every day he fights to live.  He is completely reliant on us and his nurses to take care of all of his needs.  He doesn't walk, doesn't talk, has 100's of seizures a day, he has a trach and is fed and given meds through his g/j tube.  But the light that he shines on those that know him is amazing.  We are so grateful for the support that Owen and our entire family has gotten and will continue to try to update as often as we can.

Much love,
David, Kelly, Hannah, Nicholas, Owen and Iris