Ethan Nielson, 8, identified as child struck in Cranston pedestrian crash
Meghan Grant | CBC News | Posted: March 21, 2016 11:51 AM | Last Updated: March 21, 2016
'Ethan is a fighter, strong, so stubborn, and loved immensely'
Though eight-year-old Ethan Nielson's prognosis is "not good," his parents say they know he is fighting to survive after being struck crossing the street while walking with his sibling last week.
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"Ethan is a fighter, strong, so stubborn and loved immensely," reads a Facebook post on a page dedicated to his recovery.
Nielson was walking home from a piano lesson on Thursday when he was hit by a truck while crossing Cranford Drive S.E. in his home community of Cranston. The driver remained at the scene.
Initially taken to the South Health Campus, the boy was stabilized and then airlifted to the Alberta Children's Hospital.
Doctors have told the family Nielson suffered a severe brain injury and that his prognosis is "not good."
The plan, according to Melanie and Jordan Nielson's Facebook post, is to allow Ethan to start waking up on Monday.
Fractured pelvis among other injuries
"This will be a very difficult time," wrote the parents. "[It] is where we start to see the extent of the damage."
Though his brain injury is the most concerning for doctors, the boy also suffered a fractured pelvis and broken bones in his eye and ear, according to the post.
The family thanked the community for all of the prayers, love, food and support they've received since the boy was struck.
"We have read every single message and they bring us great comfort and strength."
A crowdfunding site has been created to help the family, which has two other children.
"I love this little man more than anything, and we are all fighting for him. Most of all, I can see him fighting for me."