Help Stanton Recover

Stanton's Condition

Stanton is 15 years old and has been in the hospital since 14 November 2023. His condition is serious with partial paralysis of his entire body and limited ability to communicate. Stanton’s condition is extremely rare. Healthcare professionals are treating him as best they can based on limited cases worldwide that are similar to his. His doctors say to expect months, possibly years, of physical, occupational, and speech therapy to regain his motor function, with no guarantee of full recovery. This is a sad and traumatic experience for Stanton and our family. Rotating family members are with Stanton 24 hours a day to support and comfort him, physically and emotionally.

We have created this fundraiser to help defray the cost of Stanton's therapy and treatments as he faces a long road to recovery.

Stanton’s Case History

Stanton was admitted to the ICU on 14Nov2023 with an altered mental state and limited mobility. Meningitis was suspected, and proactive treatment was initiated while comprehensive procedures and tests were performed, including a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) and MRI of his brain. He began having seizures and more acute care was given for what was determined to be meningoencephalitis. The only test that came back positive was for mycoplasma pneumonia (M. pneumoniae).

M. pneumoniae bacteria commonly causes mild infections of the respiratory system. People spread M. pneumoniae bacteria to others by coughing or sneezing.

M. pneumoniae has been seen in very rare cases to cause CNS complications by direct invasion into the brain or by indirectly triggering an autoimmune response. In Stanton’s case, the latter was suspected. His condition progressed to ADEM – Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis and aggressive treatment was administered, including plasma exchange (PLEX) and monoclonal antibody medication.

The investigation continues to identify a specific diagnosis for Stanton’s condition, including highly suspected Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE). ANE is a rare disease characterized by brain damage and there are no consensus treatments at this time. Based on the testing and treatment to date, Stanton's case is very rare and a definitive diagnosis may never be determined.

Stanton's Current Status

Stanton remains in the hospital until his condition improves. He is making small progress day after day, but his prognosis is still unknown at this time.

A little about Stanton

Stanton is a kind and compassionate young man who is adored by all those around him. He loves his family dearly, especially his 8-year-old sister. Stanton has the strong will and determination that is needed to help him get through the tough days ahead.

We pray for Stanton to have a full recovery so that he can go back to doing the things he loves and touching the lives around him with his endearing personality.

We are grateful for any support you can offer to help Stanton get the treatment and therapy he needs to recover and resume his life prior to this very heartbreaking experience. Thank you for your consideration.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,

Stanton's Extended Family