The father of 5-year-old Gibson Rivera Theimer, who was severely injured in a lawn mower accident on Saturday, May 10, in Olney, has provided an update on his condition. He shared that Gibson’s injuries are far more extensive than initially reported, affecting his entire right leg from upper buttock to foot. While Gibson is now out of immediate danger, he faces multiple surgeries, a long rehabilitation process, and will ultimately require a prosthetic. Over $40,000 has been donated so far to a GoFundMe campaign supporting his recovery.
“Now that Gibson is no longer in immediate danger, we want to share a more complete picture of what happened to him, as many people are asking and offering help.
At first, it was reported that Gibson had only sustained a foot amputation injury. However, the extent of his wounds is far more severe. The entire length of his right leg — from his upper buttock to his foot — was affected in the accident. We won’t go into more graphic detail, but I will say that this is a major life-altering injury.
What Gibson’s Medical Journey Looks Like Right Now:
The medical journey ahead will involve an unknown number of surgeries, including procedures related to amputation, nerve grafts, and skin grafts. These operations will take place over the course of many months. Physical and emotional rehabilitation will be long-term, and Gibson will ultimately require a prosthetic of some kind.
As the final stage of the rescue operation, Gibson was flown by helicopter to a trauma center where his life was saved. Thanks to the swift and skillful work of the medical team, he is no longer in danger of dying. His wounds have been cleaned and dressed, but a definitive reconstruction plan is still developing. The doctors need time to see what nerve and muscle functions might recover naturally and which ones will require surgical repair to regain any function.For now, Gibson is returning to the operating room every few days so the team can clean and assess his wounds until they feel confident in determining next steps. The most pressing concern at this stage is the risk of infection, and the staff is doing everything possible to keep him safe.
Until today (Wednesday), Gibson had been sedated at a level that kept him in a borderline state between sleep and wakefulness. During that time, he was intubated, which caused him great discomfort. He was able to communicate with nods and head shakes while battling fever and significant body swelling.
We are relieved to share that this morning, the breathing tube was removed. Sedatives were discontinued, and Gibson became more aware of his condition. Naturally, upon seeing the extent of his injuries, he experienced deep anxiety. His mother and I have been at his side, reassuring him that we will get through this together, that he is safe, and that life will eventually return to a place of stability and hope.
Today, he met with occupational, physical, and emotional therapists to begin preparing for the long road ahead. Pain is being managed through medication, though it comes with difficult side effects like nausea and vomiting.
As of tonight — Wednesday — Gibson is resting. Tomorrow, he will undergo another surgery. We are still in the earliest stages of what will be a long process, but for now, the doctors feel things are going according to plan.
With Gratitude, We want to thank every person who has donated, shared, and sent love and support our way. Your kindness is giving us strength and making a very real difference in Gibson’s journey. We will continue to post updates as we learn more.
With gratitude, Gibson, Rodeth, and Richard”
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How to Donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/urgent-help-needed-for-5yearold-gibson-rivera-theimer?