In September 2009, Zachary Weight was riding his dirt bike at his home in Belle Vernon, Pa., when the family’s dog ran out in front of him. To avoid a collision, Zach slammed on the brakes, falling directly onto the handlebars as he was thrown from the vehicle.
Having witnessed the crash, Zach’s father, Dan, rushed to his side. Moments later his mother, Christy, called for an ambulance. Zach was taken directly to the Benedum Pediatric Trauma Center at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where the trauma team determined he severely lacerated his liver, fractured a rib, and lacerated his spleen.
Although Zach's injuries were severe, doctors hoped his liver would recover without major surgery. He was sent to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for monitoring and recovery, where he endured numerous tests and procedures including exploratory abdominal surgery and abdominal drains to remove the large amount of fluids overwhelming his body. “From the trauma team to the housekeeping staff, everyone was so kind, they truly cared,” says Christy.
For 45 days, Zach underwent continuous testing and treatment including physical and respiratory therapy before he was sent home after a full recovery. Zach has since returned to playing soccer, football, and wrestling for his high school teams.