Viktor
Well-known member
- Mar 19, 2019
- 2,552
- 0
Tiny Vikings fan overcoming obstacles at U of M Masonic Children’s Hospital
The Vikings have a long-standing relationship with the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, and recently a powerful story was posted about one of its young patients.
According to an article posted on the hospital’s website, Michael and Erika Powell’s daughter, Abigail, was not expected to survive after suffering a severe brain injury. But she is continuing to prove she is a fighter.
Abigail was born on a Vikings game day, Nov. 4, and declined over the week. The following was written about her first miracle:
On Sunday, Nov. 11, at around kickoff, Abigail was taken off life support. “We held our breath – and she took a breath,” Erika said.
Abigail did not pass away that day. “She just kept breathing,” Mike said. “We spent every minute just enjoying her.”
As the day went on, Abigail continued to fight. She was even able to nurse briefly. The Powells prepared to take Abigail home, supported by hospice care. By noon on Monday, the new family of three was on the way home, although they did not know how long this respite would last.
Incredibly, Abigail thrived at home. “The hospice team came once a week, and every time they visited, Abigail was right on track with her breathing, her heart rate and her growth,” Erika said.
According to the article, Abigail continued to progress, and she was released from the hospice program at 6 weeks old.
Today, they participate in physical therapy appointments at University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital and attend the NICU follow-up care clinic. They see changes in Abigail every week.
To read the entirety of Abigail’s story, click here.