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Ethan’s Story

Site created on April 28, 2024

Ethan has always loved Scouts. No one can sell popcorn like this kid! He earned his Arrow of Light and crossed over from Cub Scout to Boy Scout back in February. We are so proud of him. He’s a straight A honors kid. He’s active in his church, loves soccer, and video games.

Ethan was SO excited for his very first Boy Scout camping trip. We ordered a huge camping bag and packed everything with care. We overpacked and we knew it, but I’m a protective mom. I made him take a few pictures with his sister before he left and got hugs. He’s almost 12 so he rolled his eyes like a typical boy, but I squeezed him anyway.

The camp is about 45 minutes from us, but I knew he was in good hands with his troop and would have a blast.

At 4:36am I woke up to a phone call and was told a tree had fallen on his tent. In the early morning confusion and with choppy cell service, I thought I heard “leg injury”. It wasn’t until later that I learned it was a head injury. There were other boys in his tent, but thankfully no one else was injured. The ambulance was on its way, but I didn’t fully understand the severity at that time. I learned that he was in and out of consciousness and needed immediate attention.

At first, we were told that he was being life flighted to Deaconess Midtown. I was halfway there when they called and said he was going to Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville instead. I splashed some gas and pulled a U turn and headed straight there. I drove over the speed limit. Sorry, not sorry.

The amount of love, support, and kindness from everyone in our community has been astounding. We are so humbled by everyone’s generosity, thoughts, and prayers. We will continue to keep everyone updated on his recovery.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Ashley Hills — 17 hours ago

Ethan was very alert this morning, and I even saw a few tiny smiles! He seems much more relaxed today and did great with therapy. We heard him try to say “Mom” several times as well! 🙂 We are looking forward to being able to move over to Frazier soon. We took a tour of the facility yesterday, and it’s very nice with great views of downtown. Once we get there, we will settle in for about 6 weeks, and I will decorate his room with all the cards, signs, and banners. 💙

Read More of the journal titled "May 16, 2024"

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