“I’m Dying” Zach Is Rushed To ER For SEVERE Pain! | Little People Big World
Zach’s story begins with a history of debilitating migraines that have plagued him for the past 10 years. While these migraines occurred almost monthly, they were usually manageable with treatment. However, this time was different—it escalated into an alarming emergency.
Tori, Zach’s wife, noticed something was wrong and called for help, prompting Zach to be rushed to the ER. The pain was so intense that Zach, in tears, exclaimed, “I’m dying,” a moment that struck fear into everyone around him.
Upon examination, doctors discovered the root of the problem: Zach’s shunt system, a device crucial for managing his hydrocephalus, had failed. Hydrocephalus, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the brain, is particularly common among individuals with achondroplasia, the form of dwarfism Zach has.
This shunt system includes a catheter that helps drain the fluid, preventing dangerous pressure buildup. However, two sections of the catheter had broken, leaving the fluid improperly drained and causing severe pain and pressure in Zach’s head.
The medical team determined that immediate surgery was necessary to replace the entire shunt system. This included the valve in his brain and the catheter that connects to his abdomen to drain the fluid. The procedure carried significant risks, including scarring, bleeding, and other complications.
To minimize these dangers, the surgeons left the old catheter in place and installed a new one instead. The surgery was extensive, requiring both work on his brain and an incision in his abdomen to address fluid drainage.
For Zach’s family, the experience was a nerve-wracking ordeal. His mother, Amy, rushed to help take care of Zach and Tori’s children so that Tori could focus on Zach’s recovery. Amy reflected on her own experience with hydrocephalus, as she had her first shunt revision as a child, making the situation hit even closer to home.
Zach’s original shunt had lasted 16 years, far exceeding its typical lifespan of 2 to 15 years, which made this emergency feel like a ticking time bomb that had finally gone off.
Post-surgery, Zach returned home to recover. While he was still weak and needed rest, the family began to settle back into their routine. Amy, exhausted from the back-and-forth trips to support the family, expressed relief that Zach’s condition was stabilizing. Despite the chaos, she found moments of lightness, such as bonding with her dog at home after the ordeal.
This experience served as a stark reminder of the precariousness of Zach’s health. While the surgery was a success, the family knows that vigilance will always be necessary. For now, they’re focusing on gratitude—grateful for the skilled medical team, grateful for the family support, and grateful that Zach can begin healing and moving forward.