Local residents are raising funds for a couple whose son is currently in critical condition in a Florence hospital after falling into a pool Sunday afternoon.
Brandon Atkinson said doctors are performing a brain scan this morning on his 2-year-old nephew, Easton Branham, who was found Sunday afternoon in his grandparents' pool by his 8-year-old brother.
"Holden put on Easton's life jacket, and then went in to the house to ask if they could get in the pool," Atkinson said "When he came out, he found Easton in the pool. He'd taken off the life jacket and went in the pool."
Atkinson said that medical staff are performing a brain scan Tuesday to check for any activity.
"They will do another one in 24 hours," said Atkinson.
He said Easton underwent emergency surgery Monday afternoon after doctors reported he wasn't producing enough oxygen in his blood and that his abdomen was swelling and putting pressure on his internal organs.
"When they (did the surgery), they removed a large part of his colon and intestines; they were dead from a lack of oxygen," Atkinson said.
Friend Leslie Greene started a GoFundMe account to help with Easton's medical bills.
"This family is going through the scariest time in their lives right now," said Greene. "It happened in the blink of an eye. This little boy is so full of joy and will put a smile on your face in two seconds. We want the family to not have to stress about anything while they are on this scary roller coaster ride. Anything helps."
Atkinson said the community's support has been overwhelming. He asked that everyone who has been praying continue to pray for his nephew, his sister, Heather Atkinson Branham, his brother-in-law, Jeffrey Branham, and his older nephew, Holden Branham.
"They are holding up as best they can," Atkinson said. "Holden is a strong kid, but this is breaking his heart. We just need all the prayers that we can get. We need a miracle."
To donate to Easton's fund, clickhere.
