Idaho Man Suffers Third-Degree Burns, Placed in Coma After Tragic Incident
An Idaho man is fighting for his life after a horrifying accident left him with severe third-degree burns and in a medically induced coma. Robert Thompson, a resident of Idaho, suffered the life-threatening burns across his upper body while attempting to make s’mores with his partner and their two daughters on April 1, as reported by East Idaho News.
The incident took a devastating turn when Thompson, 25, reached for a gas can to start the fire after realizing they were out of fire starter. The gas can unexpectedly exploded in his hands, causing catastrophic injuries. His partner, Kimberly Graybeal, vividly recalled the horrific moment, stating, “His whole body went back, and his arms and his legs went out. He just freaking flew.”
Graybeal recounted Thompson’s desperate cries for help as he rolled on the ground in agony, pleading for assistance as he struggled with the excruciating pain. Despite the shock and chaos of the situation, she managed to get water while a neighbour quickly dialled 911. Grasping the severity of the situation, Graybeal made a critical decision to rush Thompson to St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center herself, potentially saving his life by not waiting for an ambulance.
Thompson was later transferred to the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, where medical professionals placed him in a medically induced coma due to the severity of his injuries. Reports indicate that he sustained third-degree burns on his torso, neck, and face as a result of the accident, highlighting the extent of the trauma he endured.
Graybeal, who has been diligently making the 180-mile journey between Buhl and Idaho Falls every week to be by Thompson’s side, expressed her profound fear and overwhelm for the uncertain future ahead. As the main breadwinner for the family, Thompson’s absence from work has added financial strain, pushing Graybeal to create a GoFundMe page to help cover basic expenses during this challenging time.
Updates on the fundraising page shed light on Thompson’s current stability following two surgeries to remove burnt skin from his body. However, the long road to recovery lies ahead, with Graybeal acknowledging the arduous journey before Thompson can return home from the hospital.
The community has rallied around the family during this difficult period, offering support and well wishes for Thompson’s full recovery. The heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can arise from seemingly routine activities, urging everyone to exercise caution and vigilance in everyday situations.
As Thompson continues his fight for survival, his loved ones remain steadfast by his side, hoping and praying for his gradual recovery and eventual return home. The resilience and strength exhibited by the family in the face of adversity stand as a testament to their unwavering bond and determination to overcome this tragic ordeal together.