Mark Hopkins

Update regarding my dad. First, I want to say thank you so much to everyone who has liked and commented on here. Your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated. Unfortunately, the prognosis right now is not good. My dad sustained bilateral pulmonary contusions (bruised lungs), resulting in a severe hemothorax (his chest cavity filled with blood), as well as a Grade 1 liver laceration. The bleeding is under control for now, but there are concerns about the possibility of a clot becoming dislodged and causing further bleeding. His spine is severely compromised. The C2–C4 region (his neck) sustained substantial trauma, resulting in complete paralysis of his left arm. His right arm and hand have limited mobility and function. Additionally, these injuries have compromised his ability to breathe and maintain his blood pressure independently. As a result, he is currently dependent on a ventilator and vasopressors. The T8–T12 region (his back) also sustained massive injuries, those vertebrae and portion of the spinal cord were crushed. The medical consensus is that he will never walk again. An MRI of his brain revealed minor ischemic injury (tissue damage caused by insufficient blood flow) in his motor cortex. However, his higher cognitive functions appear to be intact. He is able to answer yes-or-no questions by blinking, as well as track people and objects with his eyes. Frankly, there are about a million things that could go sideways here. Even in the best-case scenario, life will never be the same. Please continue to keep my dad and our family in your prayers. I appreciate each and every one of you, and I cannot thank you enough for your support.

My name is William Banks, and I am Thomas's son. It is with a heavy heart that I share that yesterday, my father was involved in a serious car accident. He is currently hospitalized and in stable condition, though he has sustained severe, life-threatening injuries. At this time, I can only ask that you keep my father in your thoughts and prayers as he faces what will undoubtedly be a difficult road ahead. I also ask that you keep my mother and brother in your prayers as our family navigates this incredibly difficult time, both emotionally and financially. My father has touched many lives, and I know how much he means to so many of you. Your friendship, prayers, and support mean more to our family than I can adequately express. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart. William Banks