Peters was apparently in a swimming accident yesterday afternoon, which has resulted in a serious neck injury. It looks like he has broken his neck. He remains in critical condition at this time. His father posted the following message on Facebook earlier today regarding Peters' medical condition:
Box Turtle Bulletin posted an additional update, indicating additional complications from this injury:
Thom can move his arms, docs are discussing the best treatment for his neck injury. Immediate concern is for the considerable water in his lungs. We are astounded at the expressions of prayers and support. Thom & Nat know about it. Please keep them up. Love from us all, EdP
Obviously, I'm not privy to the details of Peters' swimming accident. But his accident vividly reminds me of a swimming situation from when I was younger. I don't even think I told my parents about this one. We were staying in a hotel while vacationing at some point in my childhood. I ran to the interior pool and fully planned to dive into the water. At the very last minute, I changed my mind and jumped into the water feet first. The water was terribly shallow -- maybe up to my shins.
I can still feel the jarring pain caused by my feet absorbing that much kinetic energy. Even at that young age, I recognized that I would have either died or broken my neck had I dived into that pool. It still freaks me out to this day.
Tragedy can happen so quickly and so unexpectedly. I will keep Thomas Peters and his family in my prayers and urge you to do the same.