Brighter days ahead for Brynn Duncan

By Trisha Marczak (Contact) | The Daily Journal

Published Monday, September 22, 2008

It’s been a long five weeks for 7-year-old Brynn Duncan. Having survived an August 18 car accident in Fergus Falls, the Moorhead native has overcome serious injuries, surgeries and pain.

The accident, which occurred on the corner of Union and Fir Avenues, resulted in injuries including a damaged kidney, a severed intestine, a bruised heart and a torn spinal cord.

It hasn’t always been easy for Brynn and her family, but following weeks of complications and uncertainty, it appears the sun has finally begun to shine down on Brynn. Literally.

Brynn’s location in the Hennepin County Medical Center has been upgraded from ICU to a room on the floor, where she’s able to experience the luxury of a large window, a flat screen television and bed for her mother.

Her improved health has also allowed her to partake in activities which may have seemed near impossible only a few weeks ago, when dangerous fevers, infections and surgeries caused concern among many. During a recent visit from family members and friends, Brynn was able to make her way outside in her new hip yellow wheelchair to a nearby park, where she took a ride on the playground’s swing.

Eventually, Brynn will be moved to Gillette Children’s Hospital. Brynn’s doctors say the move will become a reality when complications with Brynn’s digestive track are resolved. As of now, that’s an issue regularly on the minds of Brynn’s family and friends, who have made themselves a home away from home at the Minneapolis hospital.

That’s the physical side of things. Emotionally, Brynn’s spirit has begun to lift, as well. According to family members, that’s a recovery which requires a different kind of healing.

The reality that she may never walk again is one that Brynn has begun to absorb. Although frustrated at times, her spirits have been lifted by many around the country who have reached out to Brynn, including one woman who, despite living through a similar situation, is still able to enjoy activities such as skiing and kayaking.