Derek Bruehl Road to Recovery

On Thursday September 10, 2020 Derek and I were visiting Cape May with some of my family gearing up for a long weekend. We were on the beach when Derek went into the water to do what he loves - body surf. Derek took on a big wave, that unfortunately pushed his head into the ground and paralyzed him from the neck down. Once we were able to get him out of the water and onto the beach there was an ER doctor who happened to be near us on the beach waiting to help. Derek went into cardiac arrest on the beach and as Fire and Rescue arrived they quickly took him to an ambulance and were able to revive him. Once in the ambulance paramedics were able to intubate him and made the decision to take him to the trauma center in Atlantic City (AtlantiCare Medical) due to concerns about his neck. Upon arrival a full body CT scan was done and revealed that Derek had broken his C4, C5, and C6 vertebrae. These bones were crushed and putting pressure on his spinal cord, so the decision was made to operate on him immediately that evening. The surgery went as well as could be expected with the doctor noting that he suffered an incomplete spinal injury (meaning the cord is not severed or cut). Due to COVID-19 procedures at this time, only Derek's mother is able to visit him for the duration of his stay here in Atlantic City from 11am-1pm and 5pm-7pm. Since that first night, we have experienced many ups and downs already with Derek. Derek has had another surgery to stabilize his back and a tracheotomy procedure as he works to get off of the ventilator. We were all elated to find that he was awake that first morning and able to answer questions after there were many concerns about possible brain injury. Over time we have found through Krista's visits that Derek is still very much himself, despite the trauma he has been through and is still experiencing. He has gained back feeling in his arms and hands, but still unable to move his hands or anything below his chest. His spinal cord is still swollen, and as the swelling decreases over time we will have a better idea of his limitations. At this time we don't know for sure what Derek's recovery will look like, but we know that he is strong, stubborn, and when he puts his mind to something he is determined to get it. All of these things, along with the fact that his injury was an "incomplete" one give us hope that Derek can work towards a great recovery. This will be a very long road to recovery for him and many have asked how they can help us. All donations made on Derek's behalf will go directly towards his hospital bills, transportation, and any rehab/equipment related needs Derek will have going forward. If it is not within your means to give financially, we ask that you please continue to pray for Derek, his family, and myself as we navigate the many challenges ahead during this recovery. Thank you, Aly Pane (Derek's Girlfriend)