Last month, a cyclist was struck by a car while riding on a road just outside of the East Lansing area. The cyclist was 22 year old Mason Barker, a member of the Michigan State University triathlon team. As I write this post, Mason remains in a coma, having suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Mason Barker
I was forwarded this note regarding Mason’s progress:
Sadly there is not much news to report. Upon being struck by the vehicle, he has been in a coma ever since. Apparently there was damage to his lower brain area which contains the basic functions of the brain. He has been on and off of the ventilator, but his family continues to hold high hopes with many good things happening every day.
Mason’s family have created a website with information about Mason and frequent updates as to his progress. Each day I read these updates I am saddened by the suffering that this young man’s accident has created, and inspired by the love and hope shown by those who love in him during what must certainly be among the most difficult situations anyone could imaging enduring. Today’s update is no exception:
Mason is being moved today. Again, send lots of healing energy and prayers to Mason as well as Kathy and Pat. This is a very difficult transition. Sparrow has been putting tremendous pressure on Kathy and Pat to move Mason. He is going to the rented floor at St. Joe’s, (Select Speciality) but it is not St. Joes’…it is rented. It is scary for everyone because of how involved Mason’s family is with his care and want to continue to be involved on the same level, but the rules seem to be a bit different there. This facility will not be as involved with moment by moment things that we have learned that Mason needs, so again the transition is going to be difficult. We do think this is just a small jump for Mason to get to the next place and it could be that it will be more difficult for us and Mason will continue on his marathon, but we still need your support. And cherish your support. After the move we will let you know how he is doing tonight.
Soooo this is the next page in the book of Mason and as we turn it we know we are starting a new learning journey and we and all of you will be by Mason’s side either through your thoughts and prayers or holding his hand. I think I am asking for additional prayers and energy for Pat and Kathy because it is a next page for them also and they are getting tired (in body, but not in spirit) and they also know that they need to get back to their lives is some form with this new transition.
The website can be visited at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/masonbarker. I encourage everyone to visit the site and perhaps leave a few words of encouragement for the family. At a time like this, I can only imagine how much they could use a little extra kindness and support.
