Bethany Hernandez

In just 2 months, Bethany will turn 18 years old. She has been planning her big birthday celebration for months and was so excited to begin a career in cosmetology, it is all she talked about. On June 24th things dramatically changed for Bethany and her family. Bethany had a tragic drowning accident while helping her Mom (Marlene Hernandez) clean their above-ground pool. Bethany challenged her mom to see who could hold their breathe under water longer. After playing a few rounds, Bethany did not come back up for air. When Mom realized something was wrong, she tried to get Bethany out of the pool but was unable to do it alone. A neighbor heard Mom’s cry for help and together they were able to get Bethany out of the pool and begin CPR. EMS was called and, on the way, to Fort Duncan Hospital, Bethany lost her life. When they arrived at the hospital, doctors were able to revive Bethany. Once Bethany was in stable condition, she was air lifted to the Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, TX for further treatment. 

Only a few days after Bethany’s accident doctors told Mom and Dad that Bethany would not recover, and they would need to decide whether to end care or keep Bethany in her current state. Mom and Dad made the courageous decision to continue to fight for Bethany's life. In the time since, Bethany has made huge improvements in try to breathe on her own, she has opened her eyes, produced tears, and jerked in reaction to what doctors believe is pain. She has been doing a lot of brainstorming over the past couple of weeks- some days more than others. She can squeeze Mom and Dad’s hands and even track voices with her eyes. Despite her amazing progress, Bethany still has some serious long-term challenges to face. Her brain and kidneys are severely damaged and in critical condition. Doctors are unsure what the true extent of the damage is currently. Mom and Dad have faith in the strength Bethany has had and will continue to have with the guidance of God. 

Currently Doctors are working on taking her off the ventilator to allow her to breathe on her own. They have slowly been lowering the oxygen levels each day. Once she is able to breathe on her own, they will work on her eating able to eat on her own then plan for her long-term care. 

Her brothers Jarrett (2), Jet (7), Juan Jr. III (12), Mom (Marlene), Dad (Juan), and Grandma Bertha will all be moving to San Antonio to be closer to the services and hospitals Bethany will need long term. We are needing to raise money for moving expenses for the family long with setting up a home for Bethany’s long-term care. We have had an amazing show of support in all forms and will forever be indebted to everyone. Anything helps, even a share or a prayer. Thank you for your support.