A family vacation to the Dominican Republic transformed into a harrowing ordeal for the Polaski family when their son, Matthew, a freshman at the University of Alabama, suffered a devastating fall. What began as a cherished winter break with his parents and brother quickly spiraled into a parent’s deepest fear – a fight for their son’s life.
On December 28th, Matthew sustained a severe head injury, the details of which remain unclear. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital where surgeons worked tirelessly to relieve critical pressure on his brain. The initial hours were a desperate race against time, a battle to stabilize him and prevent further damage.
Once Matthew was deemed stable enough for travel, an international medical flight transported him to Miami, continuing his care in a specialized facility. The journey itself was fraught with anxiety, each mile a testament to his family’s unwavering determination to secure the best possible treatment.
The extent of Matthew’s injuries is staggering: multiple skull fractures, a fractured pelvis, and fractures in his lower back vertebrae. Doctors cautiously reduced his sedation, carefully monitoring for any response, any sign of neurological function.
A flicker of hope emerged as Matthew began to exhibit small, but significant, movements. His arms and legs responded to stimulation, an encouraging early indicator. But the most profoundly moving moment came when, spontaneously, he opened his mouth and squeezed his mother’s hand – a gesture that unleashed a torrent of emotion.
Matthew is described by those who know him as a dedicated and respectful young man, a hardworking student with a fervent passion for gymnastics. He had recently embarked on his college journey, joining Sigma Pi fraternity and brimming with potential.
His parents, particularly his father, a former police chief, have always been his steadfast champions, traveling tirelessly to support his athletic pursuits and academic aspirations. Now, they face a different kind of battle, one demanding resilience and unwavering hope.
The financial burden of Matthew’s care is immense. Initial medical bills in the Dominican Republic already approach $75,000, and the cost of the international transport alone is estimated between $35,000 and $55,000. Even with insurance, the ongoing expenses in the United States are substantial, representing only the beginning of a long and arduous road to recovery.
The uncertainty surrounding the full extent of the head injury remains, and each day brings new challenges. But amidst the worry and the financial strain, the Polaski family clings to the small victories, to the squeeze of a hand, and to the unwavering belief in their son’s strength.
