From Seth on the Family Situation

Submitted by Seth on August 8th, 2023 at 10:59 AM

Our view when we look this way is a lot better than the opposite direction.

I wanted to let the readership know why I haven't been responding to emails or writing much the last week. My son has been diagnosed with something called Miller Fisher (no relation), a type of Guillain–Barré syndrome. It's rare, and one of the shittier things that can happen to your kid, but one of the better situations for the pediatric ICU at Mott because you can make a full recovery.

Unfortunately it's a bit of a haul to get there. If the treatment works his strength should return, he can come off the ventilator, and we can get to a new normal where I can get some work done. Until he turns the corner, I'm sorry that a lot of the things I do here are going to have to sit around.

We are not asking anything of any of you right now except patience. If you feel like showing gratitude to someone, please direct it towards the doctors and nurses of the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital. I cannot begin to describe the level of caring and competence we've seen here from everyone. Things might have gone in a lot of directions in the last few days, and we are skidding along peak outcomes because of the brilliance and teamwork of their Pediatric, Neurology, Physical & Occupational Therapy, Psychiatry, Respiratory, Child Life Services and above all Nursing staffs.*

On the plus side, we have an INCREDIBLE view of the Arb and Huron River, and the public bathroom/shower we use has a painting of Tate and Denard.

So I think we'll be fine.

* Seriously, everybody one day should see what Rounds look like. It's like watching NASA work an Apollo mission.

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Toledo_M_Fan

August 8th, 2023 at 11:04 AM ^

My daughter spent her first 147 days in the NICU. I understand what you mean about the rounds they make, and also what kind of a person it takes to work in pediatrics. Wishing for nothing but the best for your son and your family. 

Joined: 11/24/2012

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stephenrjking

August 8th, 2023 at 11:06 AM ^

Great to hear that you've gotten in, gotten a diagnosis, and that recovery is possible. There are few things worse than seeing one of our children endure a critical health problem. Even now that you know it's a tough, tough haul. It is a hard time, the kind of touchstone in your life you never want to experience. I have and will pray for you. 

My God grant grace, peace, and bless you and your family. 

 

Joined: 03/15/2012

MGoPoints: 20143880

mGrowOld

August 8th, 2023 at 11:06 AM ^

I'm so sorry Seth and will definitely send up any and all thoughts and prayers for your son.  If he's anything like his father I'm sure he's pretty tough and a generally good and kind-hearted dude.

I have no idea what this community could possibly do to help but I can assure you if there's ANTHING you need from us, just ask.

Joined: 10/04/2010

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GoBlue96

August 8th, 2023 at 11:09 AM ^

Glad you got your son in and expect a full recovery.  I spent 3 months in the old Mott NICU with my now 20 year old son and have been back for multiple surgeries including in this past March.  You are in great hands with the best doctors in the world.  I recommend the breakfast burrito in the cafeteria.  The Charles Woodson lounge is a nice place for some rest and I used to walk through the arb to get some exercise.  Best of luck to your son and family.  

Joined: 07/01/2008

MGoPoints: 55707

Blue Middle

August 8th, 2023 at 11:14 AM ^

That is so hard.  If how you'd like to be supported changes, please let us know.  In the meantime, sending good vibes your way.  May divine Love bring comfort and healing to your son and family.

Joined: 01/07/2019

MGoPoints: 5242

Other Andrew

August 8th, 2023 at 11:15 AM ^

So sorry to hear this, Seth. I hope all treatments will be effective and that your son will make a speedy and complete recovery.

And seriously, don’t worry about us. We appreciate all you do, and will get along just fine without additional blog content. 

Joined: 06/30/2008

MGoPoints: 7683

NeverPunt

August 8th, 2023 at 11:19 AM ^

As a father who took his kid to the E.R. this summer for a serious medical issue, I can at least understand a very small piece of what your family must have experienced lately and are continuing to cope with, and I'm sure it's been hell. 

I hope your son makes a full recovery, and my thoughts will be with you and your family whenever I pop unto the site, I can assure you. God Bless.

Joined: 03/26/2019

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Hab

August 8th, 2023 at 11:19 AM ^

Praying for your son and your family.  If there is something more practical we can do, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Joined: 01/02/2015

MGoPoints: 39666

johacket

August 8th, 2023 at 11:25 AM ^

Much love and prayers!  Had my niece spend 6 months in the ICU when born at 27 weeks, to say it's a draining experience is an understatement.  Focus on your family and everything else will fall in place.  Stay strong!

 

Edit side note: HTTV is wonderful this year, about 1/4 the way through, and thoroughly enjoying it...well done all around!

Joined: 10/05/2016

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Blue@LSU

August 8th, 2023 at 11:26 AM ^

So sorry to hear about this, but I'm glad your son is in the best of hands! We're all sending lost of positive energy towards the little dude.

Joined: 11/04/2016

MGoPoints: 80121

jbeck224

August 8th, 2023 at 11:26 AM ^

Thoughts and prayers for a full, speedy recovery and for strength and grace to help you and your family along the way. 

Thanks for all you do here and I'll be excited for your return - whenever that time comes!

Joined: 04/08/2009

MGoPoints: 253

BoCanHam15

August 8th, 2023 at 11:27 AM ^

Wow, praying for your family and your sons 100% speedy recovery.  Having worked in Peds before, it made an indelible impression on my understanding and appreciation for each and everyday of life itself.  God Bless you and GO BLUE 

Joined: 07/08/2016

MGoPoints: 16100

KBLOW

August 8th, 2023 at 11:32 AM ^

I am so sorry for you, your family, and your child. You are in great hands at Mott though. And don't forget to take care of yourself, too. 

Joined: 06/30/2008

MGoPoints: 22581

Kapitan Howard

August 8th, 2023 at 11:33 AM ^

A buddy of mine's kid went through something similar a couple years ago (I believe the same condition if memory serves) and he was treated at CS Mott. He made a full recovery and I hope your boy does the same.

Joined: 07/30/2009

MGoPoints: 6558

PeteM

August 8th, 2023 at 11:33 AM ^

Seth, My mother worked at Mott for years, and though she wasn't in direct patient care, she got to know many doctors, nurses and other caregivers. She can't say enough good things about the intelligence, dedication and ability. They are amazing and you are in the best hands. I hope and pray that everything goes well for you son. 

Joined: 09/15/2008

MGoPoints: 3471

milhouse

August 8th, 2023 at 11:33 AM ^

So much love and support for you, your son, and your entire family at this incredibly difficult time. I've just been through three months of hospitalization with my father, and I can only imagine how much more horrific it must be with a child. We will say the Mi Shebeirach for your son and hold all of you in our hearts.

Joined: 05/29/2010

MGoPoints: 2991

DetroitBlue

August 8th, 2023 at 11:35 AM ^

Best wishes to you and your family. I’ve been consistently amazed with the level of care my kids have received on the few occasions we’ve had to take them to Mott. We’re so fortunate to have such a great children’s hospital nearby

Joined: 07/02/2008

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S.G. Rice

August 8th, 2023 at 11:42 AM ^

Your child is infinitely more important than anything blog-related.  And I'm not sure infiinty is a large enough number to express the difference. 

Best to him, you and your entire family.  If anyone can help him beat this, the Mott team can.

Joined: 07/18/2008

MGoPoints: 23187