Optimistic Boy With 10 Percent Chance To Walk Again Says 'I'll Take It'
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - Doctors have given a 16-year-old boy who was the victim of a hit-and-run in Fort Collins a 10 percent chance to ever walk again.
Connor Walsh was walking to school westbound on the north side of Laporte Avenue last Tuesday morning when he was stuck by a vehicle. He was transported to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland where he remains in serious condition.
The driver, identified as Reginald Loewen, 36, of Fort Collins left the scene. He later turned himself in to police and told them he was the driver.
"Police do not believe Loewen was under the influence of alcohol or distracted at the time of the collision, but may have fallen asleep," police said in a statement.
Friends of Walsh's family released a statement on Sunday saying Walsh remains optimistic despite suffering serious injuries to the base of his spine. On Saturday he underwent a spinal fusion procedure. He is still able to move his arms and legs.
"When he asked, 'Will I ever walk again?' The doctor gave him a 10 percent chance. And Connor said 'I'll take it,' " the statement said. "Anyone who knows Connor knows he is an eternal optimist but he faces a tough uphill battle."
Walsh will be transferred to Craig Hospital in Denver "for at least two months of rehab and recovery."
"There are very real conversations taking place about life in a wheelchair and making modifications to their home so it is accessible to Connor."
Additional Information From Connor Walsh's Family
We have set up a CaringBridge page at caringbridge.org for friends and classmates who are interested in staying in touch with Connor. In addition, friends of our family have set up a Give Forward account at https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/p228/connor-walsh-zoccali.
Once again, thank you to everyone for their love, support and prayers.
