Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) – “Experiencing your sibling in critical care, confessing your love to him, anticipating the worst… it’s a nightmare no one should have to endure,” shared Adam Griffis.
Adam’s younger brother, Evan, is struggling for survival in a medical facility located in Puerto Vallarta. The 30-year-old experienced a freak accident while swimming last Sunday, resulting in a broken neck after a sudden wave impact.
“In what appears to be a stroke of misfortune, a rogue wave crashed into him from behind, catapulting him directly towards the ocean floor. The impact led to a severe neck injury with two fractured vertebrae,” explained Adam.
Despite the severity of the accident, Adam relayed that Evan suffered no brain injuries and has been cognizant of the surrounding conversations and actions.
“Evan has always been a robust individual and an exceptional swimmer. You never anticipate such occurrences, and when they transpire, they upend your life instantly,” Adam stated.
Evan was promptly transported to a nearby hospital following the accident where he underwent an 11-hour spinal surgery. His family hurriedly flew in from Seattle to be by his side.
“The critical care unit is currently his home, with severe swelling around his spinal cord persisting, posing a significant threat to his life even now,” said Adam.
Medical experts estimate Evan has a 70% chance of surviving the ordeal. However, they predict a bleak prognosis for his mobility, ruling out the possibility of walking again. However, with intensive physical therapy, Evan may regain control of his arms.
Despite the odds, Evan remains optimistic, according to his brother.
“Observing Evan’s resilience and courage throughout this ordeal has been deeply inspiring. The opportunity to express my love for him, and the subsequent heartfelt gaze he returned, was profoundly moving,” Adam said.
Evan, a passionate explorer, was in Puerto Vallarta to participate in the Pride festivities.
In response to this tragic incident, an outpour of donations from across Evan’s diverse communities has flooded in, amounting to tens of thousands of dollars to support his medical expenses.
“It’s heartening to witness the unity and support of everyone in Evan’s life rallying to aid him during this challenging time. It’s a testament to his character and the love people have for him. We stand beside him in this battle,” Adam expressed.
The prognosis is that Evan will remain in intensive care for at least a week. The immediate goal is for him to regain autonomous breathing. The family holds onto hope that Evan will recuperate and return home soon. Despite the accident, Adam is hopeful that his brother will fulfill his commitment to officiate his wedding in August.
“It’s a long, arduous road ahead. However, we, as a family, are committed to overcoming this together, in the years to come,” Adam pledged.
To further assist with the mounting medical expenses, the family has established a fundraising campaign.
