Gavin is a 15 year old kid who loves all things hands-on and active, especially skiing, woodworking, hunting, soccer, and being with friends. Over the winter holiday break while skiing with family, Gavin had a serious accident, hitting a fence in a fall. His helmet saved his life, but he has suffered a C4-C5 cervical spinal cord injury. Gavin’s healing journey began the moments after the accident. He has received excellent care, first getting off the hill, then by ambulance to the local emergency room, then an airlift to the Marshfield Clinic. In surgery that night, neurosurgeons took out and replaced the broken vertebrae with a spinal fusion operation.
Gavin’s next step in healing took place in the pediatric ICU in Marshfield. After surgery, Gavin received breathing support with a ventilator, which was very frustrating for such a strong and independent young man! In the ICU, Gavin had movement in his neck and shoulders but no sensation or movement below that point. He maintains his sense of humor and hard work ethic. The PICU team in Marshfield was absolutely amazing and provided Gavin excellent care focused on his safety and healing to the best possible outcome.
Next stop - Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, a rehabilitation hospital in Chicago. Here Gavin was given the OK for a full diet, had the opportunity to bathe, get dressed, and begin some therapies. He got off the ventilator and had the tracheotomy removed. He was an inpatient here for about 2 months.
Gavin was discharged from Shirley Ryan on March 30. Going home never felt so good. Downtown Chicago and being stuck inside all the time was not a good fit for Gavin or Dee. Since the accident, Gavin has gained a little movement in his left biceps. At home, he's working with therapists, enjoying good food, seeing friends and family, starting some coursework for school, and getting adjusted to life out of the hospital. He's working on gaining endurance and strength to attend a spinal cord specialty outpatient rehab program in the future. There is so much to do to be at home successfully.
Update: In August, Gavin and family were able to travel to Atlanta, GA, so Gavin could work with Shepherd Hospital, a true specialty hospital in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. It was the experience they needed to learn how to be successful in the world going forward. Gavin is back at school full time, participating in all the things a high school sophomore should be doing as best he can.
Gavin is strong, tough, and already an inspiration to others. He is supported by a loving community of family and friends.
If you are interested in helping Gavin and his family, please contact the family or connect to the GoFundMe above in "Ways to Help."
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Gavin Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Gavin's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.Help Gavin Stay Connected to Family and Friends