Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and his wife Chelsea provided an update on the condition of their son Maximus after revealing that he was hospitalized.
In a previous Instagram story, Chelsea shared that Max was taken to the hospital after suffering undisclosed issues since the All-Star break. She added that Freddie met the family and spent the night in the emergency room after a game against the San Francisco Giants.
On Thursday, the couple posted a collaborative photo of Max with a detailed update on his health and recovery. They also revealed the diagnosis and urged their followers to keep them in their prayers.
“Last Friday, Max deteriorated rapidly and became paralyzed all over,” they wrote. “We are very lucky that we were able to get him to the hospital in time so that his lungs could be strengthened.”
‘Freddie was in Houston at the time and rushed to catch the first flight home. After many tests, Max is battling a severe case of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological disease that is especially rare in children.’
Freddie Freeman and his wife Chelsea gave an update on the health of their son Max (left)
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is triggered by an acute bacterial or viral infection and attacks the nerves. GBS symptoms begin with weakness and tingling in the lower body. As the infection progresses, paralysis can occur, as happened to Maximus.
The disease has fewer than 20,000 cases each year in the United States and can be cured with blood treatments.
“These have been the toughest and scariest days of our lives. Maximus is a very special little boy and has been fighting VERY hard,” they added. “It will be a difficult journey to recover, but we have faith that he will heal completely. We have been amazed at his improvement over the last 48 hours.”
“Maximus’ breathing tube was removed yesterday and he was taken off the ventilator, which for us is a huge victory. We believe in the power of prayer and have witnessed a miracle in his recovery.”
Chelsea previously shared that Maximus was experiencing difficulty standing and walking.
The three-year-old boy was rushed to hospital and diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Chelsea and Freddie urged their followers on social media to pray for their family.
The Dodgers are currently atop the National League West with a 63-46 record.
‘Please continue to pray for Maximus and our family. We truly appreciate and feel all of your support.’
With Freddie out to be with his family, the Dodgers maintain their first place in the NL West. The team has a 63-46 record and will remain on the road until August 4, when its series with the Oakland Athletics concludes.