Young Boy Faces New Health Challenges After Accident

REXBURG – Four-year-old Carter Grover has faced more challenges than many adults. At just seven months old, he contracted a virus linked to COVID-19 that left him paralyzed from the neck down.

“He contracted COVID from his daycare, which led to a virus called transverse myelitis,” explains Katherine Grover, Carter’s mom. “We had almost miraculously made a full recovery from that.”

Transverse myelitis, as noted by the Mayo Clinic, is a neurological disorder characterized by inflammation in one section of the spinal cord. This condition can lead to pain, muscle weakness, sensory issues, bowel and bladder dysfunction, as well as paralysis.

“We’ve been through a lot of physical therapy three times a week and weekly occupational therapy. It’s been a wild journey. He started walking again in April 2024, and soon after he learned to run,” Grover shares. “Every three months, we traveled to Lehi, Utah, for Botox shots in his joints to prevent stiffness.”

Despite the ups and downs with his health, Carter’s personality shines through. “He’s just so happy to be alive; he has a little attitude, but really, who doesn’t these days? He loves music, dancing, and all kinds of animals,” Grover says. “He’s super playful and always wants to be close to me.”

On September 22, while driving Carter to his therapy appointment, his grandmother, Laurie Peterson, experienced a medical emergency near Salem Road and 3000 North.

“She had a stroke, which made it hard for her to stop at a sign, and she got hit by another vehicle. It involved a hay-baler,” Grover details. “We believe the vehicle rolled, but it’s hard to say for sure. They both had their seatbelts on.”

Six people, including Carter and his grandmother, were taken to the hospital.

Grover was at Costco when she received the distressing call about the crash, learning that both her mother and son were unconscious at the scene.

“They were rushed to EIRMC in Idaho Falls. Remarkably, (Peterson) became conscious enough to provide them with my name and number,” Grover recalls. “But shortly after, she crashed and had to be intubated.”

Carter was then life-flighted to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City.

“The accident resulted in a spinal cord injury at C1 and C2, as well as damage at C5 and C6,” Grover explains. “This severe injury has left Carter paralyzed from the neck down, and he can’t breathe independently.”

Doctors have reportedly provided a tough prognosis, but the family remains hopeful. “The chances of him walking again and breathing on his own are low,” Grover admits. “Still, he’s very aware and communicates with me and the medical staff through his eyes.”

While Katherine stays with Carter in Utah, her sister, Emily Gonzales, is with their mother in critical condition at EIRMC.

Gonzales mentions that Peterson has suffered multiple strokes and is still critically ill. “Unfortunately, she’s facing a long recovery and has multiple injuries,” she says.

Despite their difficulties, the sisters feel grateful for the community’s support, which has been overwhelming. “I’m so humbled by the incredible people in my life,” Grover expresses. “Carter’s preschool created a big poster full of drawings and messages for him, along with his favorite stuffed lion.”

Recently, Gonzales learned that her coworkers at The Neighborhood Barber in Idaho Falls are hosting a fundraiser titled “Cuts for Carter.”

“My amazing team really wants to help; they’re organizing a cut-a-thon on October 11, with all proceeds going to Carter’s recovery and to assist my sister while she’s in Utah,” she says.

A GoFundMe has also been established by Gonzales to help cover Carter’s medical expenses and other costs during this challenging time.

“Carter has amazed so many doctors and continues to overcome obstacles,” Gonzales notes. “As he grows older, he consistently proves everyone wrong.”

Grover emphasizes her mother’s strength as a source of inspiration for their family. “She’s an incredible woman who raised three kids on her own while working full-time,” she says. “We are so lucky to have her so involved in our lives.”

Even as their family faces these severe challenges, Grover reflects on a phrase that brings her comfort. “Carter is so determined, and he’ll get through this,” she says. “One of his favorite things to tell me is, ‘You’re my favorite heart.’”