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SALT LAKE CITY — The Demong family loves to spend time outdoors. And thanks to Primary Children's Medical Center, they can do so with their 1- year-old son, Liam.
Katie Demong, Liam's mother, was the first to notice something was wrong with Liam. She said he was normally a happy baby, but he began to cry a lot and was crabby much of the time. Even as doctors told the Demongs there was nothing wrong with Liam, he became weaker, until finally the family took Liam to Primary Children's, where he was found to have infantile botulism.
The sights of the machines, wires and tubes keeping Liam alive were heartbreaking to his parents.
"No parent should ever have to see their child like that," Katie Demong said.
Liam's story at Primary Children's ended happily, though, and today he is back to his normal, happy self.
"It really is a life changing event and it's fantastic, being able to enjoy every day for what it is with him," His father, Billy Demong, said.
Primary Children's Hospital and KSL are joining forces for the annual "Giving Hope" campaign, and aim to raise $200,000 for the hospital this year. Rather than the 28-year- tradition telethon, donations can be contributed online.
