Here’s the statement that the family of Boston Red Sox prospect Ryan Westmoreland issued about his health through his agents at Octagon Sports:
“We greatly appreciate the privacy that we have had to this point. This privacy has allowed Ryan to focus entirely on his rehabilitation and we believe this has helped him make significant progress in a short period of time. The next few weeks are very important to Ryan’s recovery. We prefer to maintain this level of privacy until Ryan is further along in the rehabilitation process. We appreciate your understanding.
“There are still many unanswered questions, but we are confident that with Ryan’s strength, courage and determination, along with the great support of his doctors and therapists, he will continue toward a successful recovery. We know that the road of rehabilitation will be long, hard and frustrating at times, but with continued patience and faith, everything will be OK. His spirits are great and his outlook is positive. As proud as we are of so many things Ryan has done in his young life, we have never been, and never will be, more proud of him for the courage he has shown during his recovery.
“In the days after Ryan first experienced symptoms in early March, he was fortunate to consult with some of the leading neurosurgeons in the world. Ultimately, he was led to what we believe is the best medical staff in the world for this procedure, Dr. Robert Spetzler and his team at the Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Spetzler’s handling of this dangerous and delicate procedure not only gave Ryan a chance at a normal life, but in fact, saved his life. For that, we cannot adequately express our gratitude. The Neuro Rehabilitation Unit there, and at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, have paved the way for his recovery. We recognize those therapists and staff as being among the best in their field and crucial to Ryan’s recovery. We expect Ryan will remain at Spaulding Hospital for a short period of time and then transition to out-patient therapy.
“We have always been very proud to be Boston Red Sox fans, but over the course of this time, that pride has increased ten-fold and is unrelated to the game of baseball. The ownership, management, staff, players and fans have shown a genuine compassion, sensitivity, professionalism and thorough support which has proven to be immeasurable. We are so fortunate to have their support and hope that knowing this, all of Red Sox Nation can realize this same pride in rooting for such a caring organization.
“The overall support for Ryan during this period has been amazing. The thoughts and prayers of so many family, friends and many others that we have never even met, have given us confidence that the progress we have seen over such a short period of time will continue. Members of the MLB fraternity, both executives and players, have taken time to be by Ryan’s side and have shown class and support while offering an encouragement that is truly special.
“We wish that we could individually address every message that has been sent our way through thought and prayer, but that would be difficult. Please know that we are very grateful and recognize them all for their kindness and sincerity. On behalf of Ryan, and our entire immediate and extended families, thank you.”
