Wednesday, October 8, 2025
It’s been 11 days since life changed in the most unexpected and unimaginable way. I haven’t posted until now because each day has been filled with more downs than ups, then more ups than downs.
Brennen has shocked his care team with amazing results from the ECMO. His lungs improved so quickly that they were able to remove the machine, and just a few days later he was breathing on his own without the ventilator. He also underwent spinal surgery, where rods and screws were placed to stabilize his back. That procedure allowed doctors to get a clearer MRI, which revealed a level two traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Since then, we’ve seen both progress and setbacks. At one point, during a neuro exam, he even gave me the bird when asked something I’ll never forget. He’s made copies of sounds and words in a broken, mumbling way, and he’s been moving all of his extremities. These are all hopeful signs of improvement.
Last night, Brennen was transferred from the cardiac ICU to the trauma floor. Since arriving, though, he has been very agitated. Today he seems different, more distant. He’s no longer following commands like blinking or squeezing a hand. Tremors in his hands and legs have become more noticeable. His last chest tubes were removed today, but shortly afterward, his right lung collapsed again, requiring another chest tube to be placed.
Even so, I can tell he is still fighting. The care team has already begun discussing his next steps. In the coming weeks, he’ll need to move to a rehabilitation hospital better suited for his recovery. The only local options are Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Omaha or Shirley Ryan Rehabilitation Hospital in Chicago. Both facilities have limited bed space, so the process to secure placement has already begun.
“The future remains uncertain. Some days we see light at the end of the tunnel, but on days like today, that light feels dim.”
Still, each day it grows a little brighter, a little closer, and a little more within reach. The emotional weight of this journey is beyond words. One night, in desperation, I even prayed to God to take me in my sleep, to give all of my strength to Brennen so that he could move forward. When I woke up the next morning, I was a wreck. I asked God, “Why didn’t you listen?” I am still trying to balance my thoughts, my emotions, and the tears that come daily.
Parents, I want to remind you…hug your kids tonight. Tell them you love them. Never take life for granted. In an instant, it can change forever. Kids, please listen closely: when we as parents “harp” on you, it isn’t because we want to be hard on you, it’s because we care. We only want the best for you, to see you succeed, and to protect you from mistakes we ourselves once made. We don’t want you to become a statistic. We want to see you grow into proud, strong, better versions of ourselves.
Finally, I want to thank everyone who has supported us in countless ways. From donations, to meals, to help at home, to a hotel room so we could trade nights at Brennen’s side, the support has been overwhelming. We will never be able to repay you, but please know we love you all deeply and are forever grateful. Your prayers are being heard. Whatever God you pray to, please keep Brennen in these prayers, and keep praying for us to have the strength to fight alongside him
~ Dad