Dragged toddler doing better
Tuesday, June 26, 2007 6:43 AM PDT
By Barbara LaBoe
Printable version
E-mail this articleLincoln Demyan, the Longview toddler injured when the family dog dragged his stroller for two blocks, is back home but may be re-hospitalized today, his mother said.
Lincoln has been battling infections in two places on his head -- one from the skull fracture he received and the other in an incision doctors made trying to close the other gash. He was hospitalized and placed on four antibiotics but developed an allergic rash to them and was reduced down to one drug, his mother Twylah Miller said Monday.
Lincoln also has vacuum-assisted closure devices on both cuts. The devices use suction to improve blood flow and help close the wounds.
Doctors at Portland's Legacy Emanuel Hospital decided to let him return home to his family this weekend. He's due back for a check-up today.
Miller doesn't know if they'll be able to return home after that visit or if Lincoln will be readmitted. Much of it, she said, depends on how well the wounds have healed.
It's possible Lincoln will need skin grafts to permanently close the wounds, but Miller is hoping that won't be necessary.
Lincoln was injured May 24 when the family dog's leash slipped onto his stroller's handle just before a loud noise startled the dog. He was dragged about two blocks before passers-by were able to stop the dog. Miller and Lincoln's father, Tyler Demyan, gave the dog away to a Kelso family after the accident.
Despite his injuries, Lincoln remains a happy, active child.
"He's still Lincoln," Miller said. "He's still running around and not letting anything stop him."
Lincoln also has become a bit of celebrity, playing peek-a-boo as people approach his parents and ask how he's doing, Miller said.
Miller said the family has been overwhelmed by the community's prayers, well-wishes and support, including donations to an account at Red Canoe Credit Union.
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