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Just a few days after Christmas, 11-year-old Sawyer Ewan had three grand mal seizures on December 29. After multiple seizures over the next three days, he was life-flighted on December 31 from Bozeman to the Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City.
Once in Utah, the seizures would continue for the Gallatin Valley resident, whose parents, Aurelia Ewan and Levi Ewan, grew up in Three Forks.
On January 6, Aurelia said Sawyer had 40 seizures, and on January 7, he would be transferred to the Primary Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Aurelia added Sawyer was later placed in a Medically Induced Coma because the seizures were blending together and becoming one constant seizure.
Sawyer has been diagnosed with Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome (FIRES).
According to the Epilepsy Foundation, FIRES is a rare condition that affects about 1 in a million or even more unique previously healthy children and young adults.
During this challenging time, Aurelia said the amazing support from the Gallatin Valley motivates her to continue advocating for Sawyer.
"Every Facebook comment, text, card, picture, and care package lifts me up. I can't wait until Sawyer can see all the love and support. I know it will mean so much to him, too. For me, it is a bit overwhelming to see how amazing our small community is and how many people care. THANK YOU!" she said.
A fundraiser for Sawyer has been scheduled for Friday, February 23 at the Three Forks School Cafeteria. The event will feature a spaghetti dinner, silent auction, and live auction.
The Sacajawea Hotel in Three Forks is also hosting a raffle to raise money for Sawyer. Those who enter the raffle will have the opportunity to win a one night stay at the hotel and dinner for two at Pompey's Grill. The cost is $5 a ticket or $20 for five tickets and the drawing will take place on February 2. Tickets can be purchased at the hotel, the Sac Bar, or by calling the front desk at 406-285-6515.
As Sawyer courageously battles, Aurelia says she could not be prouder of her son.
"Sawyer is one determined, resilient, and strong boy. Even before all this he has always shown these characteristics," she said. "I know Sawyer will be okay. There is nothing he can't overcome. This is just a hiccup in the amazing life that he will have. Please continue to pray or send positive energy if praying isn't your thing. Send all the positivity up for my sweet SoyBean," Aurelia said.
Cards for Sawyer can be sent to:
Western Horizon Insurance
C/O Sawyer Ewan
43 Mill Town Loop Unit C
Bozeman, MT 59718