Imagine ending a fun camping trip only for it to take a frightening turn. That’s exactly what happened to a young boy in Yavapai County when he was bitten by a rattlesnake. Michelle Bahme shared the harrowing experience of her 9-year-old son, Lennon, getting bitten by the venomous snake.
While they were wrapping up their camping gear and preparing to head back home, Lennon suddenly ran up to his mother, clutching his hand and saying, ‘owie, owie.’ Michelle immediately noticed two puncture wounds on his ring finger with blood oozing out.
Without even checking what type of snake it was, Michelle quickly got Lennon into the truck and drove until they had enough cellular service to call for help. An ambulance met them halfway and rushed Lennon to Yavapai Regional Medical Center where doctors identified the symptoms as a rattlesnake bite and administered antivenom.
Despite the swift medical response, Lennon’s condition worsened, and he was airlifted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital for further treatment. His finger had turned purple, and the tissue damage was severe, indicating a long road to recovery.
Michelle described the shock and fear of potentially losing her child to the snakebite. With over 40 vials of antivenom administered, the progression was halted, but the damage could not be reversed. Lennon’s finger had turned black, and doctors warned that he might lose part of it.
As Lennon bravely battled through the pain and treatment, Michelle emphasized the importance of caution and awareness, noting how easily anyone could fall victim to a hidden rattlesnake.
Now, as Lennon awaits his fate and recovery, the family is grateful for the medical care he received and the support they’ve received from their community.
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