Larson

While the Viebrock Family was visiting Atlanta, GA in April of 2009, Larson became ill. His parents took him to the emergency room where he was diagnosed with pneumonia and was hospitalized at the Scottish Rite Hospital. While in the hospital, a doctor noticed that the results from Larson’s blood work was not right so she ordered another blood test. When the second set of results came back they too concerned the doctors. A specialist was called in and Larson was admitted to the PICU where he was diagnosed with HUS (hemolytic uremic syndrome). This is a rare disease in which bacteria causes the red blood cells to destroy themselves causing the kidneys to clog and eventually shut down. There is no cure. You only treat the symptoms until the disease can run its course. Larson was placed on complete life support and dialysis. He remained in the PICU for 32 days and was then admitted to the rehabilitation unit to relearn to walk, talk, sit up, and other things normal 1 year olds can do. The Viebrock Family returned to Smithville 7 weeks after the whole ordeal began.

Today, Larson is fully recovered and doing well. He is not on any medications but his kidney function will continue to be monitored yearly. Larson is 17 years old and going to be a senior next fall! Larson attends Smithville High School and Northland Career Center where he is in the Diesel Mechanics program. Larson is in FFA and participates in SkillsUSA where he tied for 2nd in State in the Power Equipment contest. Larson also runs with the cross country team and he loves spending time with his friends.

Thank you for helping us get through our life-changing ordeal and for coming today to help us pay it forward. Our family’s life-long goal is to help others in need and to serve others. This car show is one way for us to do it. Hug your kids, tell someone you love them and find the miracle in today!

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