Hi, my name is Mike Gasperson, and I’m starting this GoFundMe for my coworker and close friends, Josh and Norma English, whose youngest son, Eli, suffered a medical emergency on Thursday, October 23.

While at swim practice, Eli went under and began to drown. His swim instructor was able to reach him, and he was then pulled from the water by the lifeguard and his mom. When brought out of the pool, he was initially cyanotic. CPR was started but soon discontinued once it was determined that Eli had a pulse.

Molalla Fire District members responded and provided care on scene before transporting Eli to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, where he began treatment for a drowning event and was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

Eli was intubated and sedated, and as sedation has been reduced, he’s begun showing encouraging signs of progress — responding to family and friends, following commands, and communicating with nods. His medical team is encouraged by his responsiveness and continued improvement, though concerns remain regarding his lungs and overall recovery.

Josh and Norma have been by Eli’s side every step of the way. They’re surrounded by a close community of family, friends, and their Clackamas Fire family, who continue to rally around them.

As Eli continues to heal, there will be significant medical and rehabilitation costs ahead, along with time away from work and the challenges that come with a long hospital stay. This fundraiser is to help ease some of that burden so Josh and Norma can focus fully on Eli’s recovery.

Any support — whether through a donation, a share, or simply keeping their family in your thoughts and prayers — means a great deal and is deeply appreciated.

Thank you for standing with the English family during this difficult time. ❤️