A Path Forward: Derek's Quest for Mobility

(Weeks before the accident; his high school graduation, 2020)

Derek Cameron Baillie, a recent graduate of Tyngsborough High School, and lover of lifting others' spirits, was involved in an accident this summer rendering him partially paralyzed. While spending time with friends and family at the pool, he miscalculated a dive and endured a spinal injury that we feared would end his life.  He was medevaced  by helicopter to Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA, to receive emergency surgery. Thankfully, and by what feels like a miracle, Derek had no brain damage.

Anyone who has had the privilege of knowing Derek knows his mind, wit and ongoing positivity are what make him who he is. While we were and are eternally grateful he has no cognitive impairment, he has had two spinal surgeries and still requires intensive physical therapy and medical care to improve his mobility. We are currently unaware if he will ever regain his ability to walk, though we know he is in the best possible care at Spaulding Rehab Center - a place that specializes in spinal and neurological injuries and recovery.  Doctors have been impressed along his journey these last several weeks with his resilience, and his body's ability to calm inflammation. They are telling us to be hopeful that he will be able to regain some movement over a long period of time. He is working incredibly hard every day on these efforts with trained professionals.

(Pictured here in 2018 with his older sister, Megan)

After several weeks, and several surgeries, he is in good spirits, and is able to eat again and sleep without a breathing tube. Derek is a natural performer, a comedian and an all around light-maker in people's lives, often putting others ahead of himself. He is even already saying he wants to use his accident as inspiration for motivational speeches to help others find purpose. But for now, it's time we lift him up and invest in his full recovery, though the road to recovery is long and not without cost.

(Pictured here with his mom, Tobi, on a family trip to Vegas)

These are unprecedented times for the world and for our family, and Derek needs all the support he can get for medical expenses, rehab treatment, physical therapy, and also the proper installments for his home when he is released to adjust to his new normal. This is not limited to but inclusive of a motorized wheelchair, ramps, accessibility for the bathroom, etc. The list may grow as we gain new information on his healing and long term needs. Right now, we simply ask if you are able, please contribute to his recovery and share this with your loved ones. We will keep you updated on his progress. We appreciate any and all donations and well-wishes. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

The Baillie Family