25 February 2024 , 07:00
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Doctors found three "extremely rare" blood infections when a student was rushed to the hospital after suffering a grand mal seizure.
Evan Kirkland, a senior at Mounds View High School in Arden Hills, Minnesota, was taken to St. John's Hospital in critical condition on January 30. When he reached the hospital's A&E, doctors found he had a 40C fever, severe brain swelling, three rare blood infections, viral and bacterial meningitis, as well as encephalitis.
He was given antibiotics and intravenous medicine for two weeks in an attempt to reduce his brain swelling. After undergoing an MRI, he was also found to have "abnormalities" in his brain that were caused by the swelling and the infections.
READ MORE: 'I had a massive seizure in the street and a group of mystery angels saved my life'
He was hospitalised on January 30 (gofundme)Evan spent two weeks in the hospital and has now returned home, where he continues to receive medication and has a surgically implanted PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter). According to a GoFundMe page created to help his family with medical bills, due to his condition he might need to receive treatment and take antibiotics for up to a year.
Baby boy has spent his life in hospital as doctors are 'scared' to discharge him
He has also lost 50 pounds (22kg) in the course of his illness, Glenda Vizecky, who organised the fundraiser on behalf of Evan's mum, Michelle Kirkland, wrote. She said she launched the fundraiser to help Evan's mum pay for his medications, hospital stay, home healthcare and doctor appointments which are not covered by insurance.
Ms Vizecky added that Ms Kirkland, who is a single mum with no other source of income, is facing huge expenses and has also had to miss on "great portions of work" so she can look after her son. In an update issued earlier this week, Ms Vizecky said Evan's appetite was returning and his energy was increasing
The family is now awaiting the results of another MRI which will determine the next course of treatment the student needs. The fundraiser says: "Evan, a talented athlete known for competing in state as well as being among the top in the state for hurdles, is no longer able to compete in collegiate track and has had to forfeit his senior track season due to these severe circumstances. Additionally, Evan will be unable to return to school for his senior year.
Evan is a talented athlete (gofundme)"Evan has a long road to full recovery. Please help the Kirkland family during this devastating time. Any amount is greatly appreciated, we understand some of you may be unable to donate, if you can please share this it would be extremely appreciated. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for rallying around Evan and his entire family!"
The GoFundMe page has a target of $50,000 (£39,700) and over $41,000 (£32,500) has been donated so far. If you wish to donate too, you can click here.