Sad News . . . an Angel who fought battles gains his wings

Hunter James
June 09, 2004 - January 14, 2011

About six and a half years ago on June 9, 2004, we received a new 1 pound 8.8 ounce life in our world and named him Hunter James. He began life with incredible obstacles. Fortunately he was a fighter and, over the next six years he fought through so many challenges to keep going. Hunter went through so much and always seemed to rally through multiple problems. He was a tough little guy with a brave heart and innocent soul. It was these qualities and a smile that melted the hearts of everyone who saw it that touched so many lives and spread love and comfort to all those who knew him.

As time went on, we realized how truly special Hunter was and how deep his relationship with us could be. We will always cherish the precious time we shared with him and, despite the sadness we now feel, we are comforted by the memories of the many wonderful hours we spent with him. Our lives have changed because of Hunter and we are honored to be his family. We were extremely proud to share him with our family and friends for he was such a special little boy. We thank God each day for blessing us with Hunter and his sweetness.

Hunter leaves behind cherished memories in hearts of his Mother, Samantha Fuse; Father, Thomas Defibaugh Jr; his paternal Grandparents, Carol and Thomas Defibaugh; his maternal Grandparents, James and Michelle Copeland and his Great Grandparents, Louis and Helen Fuse; his Aunt Alexandra Mayes and Uncle Justin Mayes, as well as his other extended family members.

We love you Hunter and you will always be with us.

In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to The Kennedy Krieger Foundation 707 North Broadway Baltimore, MD 21205 or https://www.support.kennedykrieger.org/donate

Another pot hole in the road

Hunter is currently at John Hopkins hospital.  We aren't 100% certain what is going on at this point.

Friday Hunter was possibly having some seizure activity. He was seen at John Hopkins ER Friday afternoon, all vitals were normal and Hunter was asleep, so we were discharged.  Throughout the remainder of the day Hunter slept.  Around 430am Hunter had awaken and appeared to be in pain and was VERY stiff and arching (for those that don't know Hunter has Cerebral Palsy) and we could not break him from the position he held himself into.  We placed a 911 call and was sent to Baltimore/Washington Medical Center.

Upon arrival Hunter received some medications to help calm him down. Finally after 10am and was given his home medications Hunter fell back asleep.  He was then transferred to John Hopkins where the accessed him and later admitted him for farther testing. 

Today Hunter is a bit better but still not 100% back to himself.  He did give a couple of small smiles but nothing since and he sleeps on and off. 

At this point we are not certain what is going on and more tests will be run on Monday.  Please keep Hunter in your prayers and hope for a good recovery from his ordeal.  I will try to keep everyone posted as soon as I know anymore information.