Imagine for a moment- Your healthy active 3 year old is playing without a care in the world. One day they're not feeling well so you take them to the doctor. Soon after you rush your child to the ER because their health continues declining and is admitted barely clinging to life. You're told that your child's right leg and left arm must be amputated and the 2nd leg may have to be removed too in an attempt to save their life. Welcome to just a glimpse into the Deere families nightmare.....
How To Help-ACCFCB met with this very battered yet tight knit family in their home on 3-23-11 to discuss with them how we may be of assistance. We determined that a van to transport James is their necessity. If you can help, please contact Suzanne @ 518-813-1493 or jmacdani@nycap.rr.com
Diagnosis- James Deere, age 3 entered AMCH emergency room on 4/12/10 with what was believed to be a "stomach virus" when in fact tests proved it was a very rare strep type A blood infection. James decompensated very quickly and was in kidney failure, septic (Lack of blood and oxygen to tissue), and suffering from toxic shock (Bacterial Infection) due to the strep group A entering his blood stream.
Normally this bug would only result in a typical "sore" strep throat; however, if it finds its way into the bloodstream it will wreak havoc. Unfortunately, James left arm and right leg were amputated due to the damage done by the disease. After spending several month's at AMCH, James was transferred to Boston Children's Hospital. He was finally able to come home on 2/23/2011 to continue medical treatment, rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.
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Thank you Laura & Len for your very kind words. James Deere and his family have been through so much and they continue with their daily struggle. When we visited with them in their home, we were witness to their close knit family and their determination toward some semblance of order in their lives. It's not much different than many of the families we have assisted. Over the last year they have been under a great deal of stress, suffered heartache and handled it all courageously. The Deere family still has a long road ahead but I have no doubt they are counting their blessings. We're looking at finding someone in a position to donate a van for their use that could be retrofitted for a wheelchair. Hope all is well with Connor. John Smith, ACCFCB President schoooby@hotmail.com
Posted by: John Smith | April 04, 2011 at 09:23 AM
We want you to know that we are praying for Little James. He is such a brave boy! God bless your family, and thank you to ACCFCB for being there for the Deere Family like you were for us. What a blessing your organization is! Hugs, and love to Little James.
The Smith Family
Posted by: Laura Smith | April 03, 2011 at 11:53 PM