We are humbled by everyone's support. Here is an update:

Damon was accepted at Shepherd Center in Atlanta which specializes in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) rehabilitation. He was transported via ambulance from Huntsville Hospital to Shepherd Center on Feb 11. Intake scans and imaging confirmed that he suffered a C3 incomplete spinal cord injury with problems noted C4 and below. The care at Shepherd Center has been nothing short of amazing, and their integrated model of care has meant full days of PT, OT, Speech Therapy (for breath work and to resolve any remaining eating difficulties), Recreational Therapy, Counseling, and more I have probably missed. He is improving nearly daily and is no longer in the ICU. From what we understand, because the injury was incomplete (the central cord was injured but not cut), a full or close to full recovery is still within the realm of possibility.

They make no guarantees of how much function he will regain, but a good benchmark is he will reach 50% of his total improvement at the 3 month post-op point, and he could regain further function (although gains at a much slower rate) for up to 12-18 months (post-op date). His legs are getting stronger and balance is getting better as he relearns to walk.

While the main concern currently is arm and hand strength as they are much weaker than his lower body and he has considerable nerve pain from his elbows to his fingers, even his arm, hand, and finger strength and coordination are improving as well. It will be some time before we know what assistive technologies he will need for work and what driving assistive technologies he may need to drive. We are hopeful for continued improvement and covet your prayers for a full recovery.

-Stephanie