Encouraging signs for teen seriously injured during football game
The 13-year-old Maple Valley boy was rushed to Harborview last week following a head injury during a football game.
"They just don't know with head injuries what the final outcome is going to be," says family friend Jeff Johnson. "You just have to go step by step and the steps that he's taken so far are extremely positive."
Zackery was injured Thursday playing football for Mount Tahoma Junior High. His dad believes it happened after his son tackled another player.
Zackery's brain began bleeding but no one noticed until Zackery started losing his balance near the end of the game. Harborview neurosurgeons operated twice to relieve the pressure, and so far the signs are good.
"It's helpful," adds Johnson, "and it's very, very positive for the Lystedt's to just see the little steps and there's gonna be lots of little steps over the next few months."
A Web site keeps friends and classmates updated on Zack's progress. He's off the respirator, breathing mostly on his own, and has even opened his eyes.
Those friends and their parents also fill the waiting room at Harborview.
"They want to show Zack and his parents how much they really care about them," says parent Jennifer McMasters, "and the kids are coming through and showing (that) they want to be up there, they want to see him, they want to show him how much he means to them."
And the prayers and positive thoughts keep the family's spirits strong. Even though Zackery is sedated, they believe he knows they're there.
"I know it makes a difference to him," adds McMasters, "he can't help but feel the support."
That support is making a difference, both for Zackery and his family. "They're doing remarkably well," says Johnson, "and they're doing remarkably well because of the support that the community has provided."
As with any brain injury, there is no timetable for recovery.
The Lystedt's friends have set up an account for Zackery; donations can be made at any Bank of America branch, the account is called "Friends of Zackery".
If you want to visit the website it's www.caringbridge.org, click on "Visit" and then type in "zackerylystedt" -- all one word.