Chase's Story
On March 30, 2013 – Chase suffered an anoxic brain injury caused by a near drowning accident in a pool while on vacation. He was non-responsive and without oxygen or a heartbeat for several minutes. It is truly a miracle that he is here with us today. Thanks to some truly selfless and quick reactions from stranger’s poolside, a vast number of incredible medical professionals, and the Lords hand, he has been given a second chance at life.
Chase spent 11 days in the PICU at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in Florida. His MRI results were not promising and showed extensive brain damage caused by the lack of oxygen. Doctors advised us that Chase’s condition would likely not improve and that he might grow up living in a hospital. Once stabilized, Chase was able to return to Minnesota, where he spent four months working tirelessly in therapy at Gillette Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, becoming healthier and stronger every day.
Overcoming almost impossible odds, Chase was eventually cleared to return home and continue his recovery surrounded by his siblings—Ava, who was 8 at the time, Tanner, who was 10—and his puppy Carly. Although Chase still faces a long and challenging recovery journey, we are incredibly grateful to walk this path with him. Chase is strong-willed, determined, and full of resilience. Throughout this journey, we received an overwhelming amount of support from friends, family, and even complete strangers. Witnessing this kindness inspired us to give back, which is why we created Chase’s Warrior Foundation. Through Chase and his journey, we have learned more about strength, faith, and compassion than most people experience in a lifetime.
