Evan's Story, chapter 23, The Burn

The Burn

For if you forgive men their trespasses, you heavenly Father will also forgive you.

Matthew 6-14

   Evan’s bath routine was routine for a paraplegic. He transferred himself from his wheelchair to his electric bath lift. A parent would start the bath water and ensure that the temperature was just right. Evan would push the LOWER button to lower himself into the bath water. After bathing, he would press the RAISE button to lift himself out. All either parent would have to do was provide the dry towels. But this night was not to be routine.

   Cindy started the bath water and was then distracted. She returned to check on Evan just as his lower legs entered the water. Cindy discovered the water was too hot, and skin was coming off his legs. We got him out as quickly as possible and flushed his lower legs with cool water. As we desperately tried to cool his legs, his skin started to blister. In spite of our efforts at first aid, the damage had been done. 

   While this was happening, Evan did not feel a thing. If he could have felt it, he would have screamed immediately and we would have prevented a serious injury. Maybe the bottom of his feet would have a first degree burn. Our hearts sank as the extent of the burn became obvious.  From just below the knees down to his toes, Evans legs were two big blisters.

   The Emergency Room doctor was not very happy with us. Child abusers have been known to place little children in scalding water. But this was an obvious accident. One, it was clear that Evan did not feel any pain in his legs. Two, Evan remained calm, cool, and collected. It was the parents who were distraught.

   After a quick lecture about our hot water heater being too hot, Evan’s legs were treated for second degree burns.

   When the initial treatment was complete, he said, “Mr. and Mrs. Price, I know this looks really bad, but I assure you, this will completely heal.” He didn’t tell us how long it should take.

   Cindy, of course, felt horrible. How could she let the water get so hot? I didn’t feel too much better. Why did I have the hot water heater set at 130 degrees? 

   Evan, on the other hand, had something else to say. “I forgive you, Mom.”

   Afterwards, Evan received a Priesthood blessing and many prayers were offered to Heavenly Father. We were praying for a quick recovery.  This time, our prayer was going to be answered.

   For follow-up treatment, Cindy took Evan to Dr. Bravo. He assured her that it wasn’t her fault. Due to the extent of the burns, he sent Evan to a plastic surgeon for treatment. Dr. Bravo continued to provide follow-up examinations and treatment. Within two weeks, the burns were completely healed.

   “Mrs. Price,” he exclaimed, “This isn’t supposed to happen so fast. This truly is a miracle.”