Zane Williams

Zane WilliamsZane Williams - Blair High School - Blair, Nebraska 68008
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Williams' two-month old son, Zane, was born with spina bifida, along with swelling of the brain stem, and paralyzed vocal cords.Williams and his wife, Jennifer, have watched Zane endure seven surgeries, including a tracheotomy to help the baby breathe and a shunt to drain water from his brain.At home, Zane requires 24-hour nursing care and seven different machines to help his body function.

The emotional cost to the parents of children with a serious case of spina bifida is incalculable, but the financial cost can be measured and it is very severe.Williams said hospital officials told him to expect $1 million in bills within the first year of Zane's life.Williams, who also teaches fifth grade at Arbor Park Middle School, has health insurance and his policy will cover the majority of the bills.

But the cost of deductibles, co-pays, and the out-of-pocket portion of the nursing care for Zane will still be significant.Another added cost will be the installation of a wash sink in the family's basement.Zane's crib is located in the basement to accommodate the equipment his care requires.

Williams said his players learned of Zane's condition after they noticed a hospital identification bracelet he was wearing to practice.Without adult prompting, he said several of the players added his family to the prayer list at area churches.
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Williams said the support the Blair community has already shown his family is appreciated."We're thankful for their prayers and support," he said.