Hey, campers.
You may have heard mention in the news that April is Autism Awareness month.
In September my nearly three year old nephew Dylan was diagnosed with Autism. He's an incredible kid, and his family has really rallied behind him to make sure they learn how to best help him.
A few weeks into the new year Dylan had his first seizure. His mother was putting him down for a nap with his older sister and when she looked back over at him he was rigid, blue, and shaking lightly. He was taken to the hospital by ambulance, monitored, and sent home. Soon after that he began having more. And more. And more. The seizures increased in frequency despite medications until he was admitted to the hospital for some emergency medications to stop the seizures. He was diagnosed with epilepsy.
One of the medications damaged his liver, made his ammonia levels spike, and sent him into a coma. We were terrified. With more medications they were able to get his ammonia levels down and he woke up. He was sent home after a week in the hospital.
He is still seizing. Just yesterday he had 15 seizures. Fifteen. Much of the progress he'd made after his autism diagnosis is set back, his motor skills are not what they used to be. Dylan used to be able to climb ANYTHING. It was incredible to watch him play.
The doctors say that we may never know why he's having these seizures. The parents are not okay with this answer. Especially since Dylan is STILL having seizures.
My brother-in-law and sister-in-law were able to get him an appointment at the Mayo Clinic, but they are in need of funds. They do have insurance, but it has only covered the first day of the week long hospital visit and they are now looking at travel funds as well.
We are doing a local Pancake Breakfast fundraiser here later this month at a restaurant which donated its kitchen to us before they open, which is incredible and we are so grateful. We are also reaching out to any avenue to help raise money for their growing bills.
I know you don't know me from anyone, but since it's FFA I thought it would be worth a post here.
If you would like to read Dylan's story or see his smiley face please visit his website:
http://www.dylanbrooks.org
There IS a donation link there if you feel so inclined. It would be incredibly appreciated by me and Dylan's parents.
Otherwise, if you or your family have any experience with Autism or Epilepsy feel free to discuss, offer advice, or get support.