Information

[davsar]

For over three years my cousin, Matthew, desired to serve in the military. So when he turned 18 he enlisted in the army. This past week, while in boot training at Fort Benning, he became ill, but Matthew did not want to miss out on anything. After being sick for a few days he went to sick call with a low grade fever. They gave him cough medicine and tylenol. Instead of resting he pushed himself to attend Physical Training. His drill sargeant noticed he had fallen far behind everyone during their dashes and when he approached him Matthew was disoriented, belligerent and even hit one of the other soldiers (which is not like Matthew - he is a gentle, disciplined young man). They called 911 but Matthew went into cardiac arrest and before they could revive him their was significant damage done to his organs and brain. The combination of his high temperature, 108, and the heart stopping, so that there was no circulation to cool his body, caused him to go into a coma. He was transferred to Fort Gordon.

My mother called me yesterday with the news and requesting that David and I go to be with my aunt and uncle while they waited for more test results. When we got there the hospital had Matthew packed with ice to bring his temperature down and in a hope to spike some brain activity. We are still waiting to see what the next few EEGs and scans show.

The emotions in Matthew's room are mixed. There is peace and a strong sense that Heavenly Father knows and cares and loves Matthew and his family. But there is still the hurt that his parents are feeling seeing their oldest child and knowing that he might not live or if he does, it might not be the life you imagine for your child.

Please keep his family in your prayers and thoughts.

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers for our family. Sadly my cousin passed away early this morning. Of course we hoped and prayed for a miracle, but are grateful that Matthew had 18 wonderful years here with us. Each of us have our own favorite memories of him and these will bring us joy. Again thank you.

[writerlady]

I am so very sorry to hear this. Prayers are going out right now. (((hugs)))

[Heidi1154]

Wow, Prayers are with all of you!
Hope he comes out of all this okay.
Keep us posted please!

[deerewife]

HUGS and prayers

[Jenn Kellams]

Oh wow, my prayers are with you and your family! I hope he recovers soon!

[JulesinParadise]

Prayers going up and out!

[JeanellePaige]

Positive thoughts coming his way. HUGS!

[debamas]

Prayers for him and your family, and do know Heavenly Father does love Matthew. May you all find strength in God at this time.

[JeanG]

Prayers for him and all of your family. Please keep us posted when you can.

[Wheeliegirl]

Prayers for him and all of your family.

[Beth-W]

I am so very sorry!! What a horrible situation to face!! Good thoughts being sent your way!

[Janshotgun]

((HUGS)) and prayers for all of you.

[SarahA]

Hugs and prayers for your family. Keep us updated!

[Northern Brat]

I got goose bumps reading this. How horrible! My thoughts are with you and your family. Take care. (((HUGS)))

[IreneP]

Prayers going out to you and your family

[JulieM]

I am so very sorry to hear this. My prayers are for hope and peace and wisdom for the staff that is taking care of him.

[pawprints]

So sorry to hear this! I hope that he comes out of this okay!

[jodcold]

I am so sorry, it is so hard to accept something like this with a young, healthy person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

[Firegems]

I am so sorry that your family has to go thru such a hard time right now. I am saying many prayers for all of you and especialy Mathew.
HUGGS

[Smiley-Scrap8]

Oh dear Sarah, good thoughts and prayers headed your way!!