For the first time, Hunter’s family is seeing his hands, and it’s both a moment of progress and a stark reminder of the battle still ahead. After multiple emergency surgeries, the images of Hunter’s hands are a mix of good and bad news—good because the surgeries are holding off the worst, but bad because the damage is severe. The fight for his hands, his future, and his life continues, and every hour matters.

Hunter, a 24-year-old lineman, was violently shocked while restoring power to help those affected by the winter storm. The shock, which should have taken his life, left him fighting for survival. His injuries are devastating, with his hands and arms suffering some of the most severe trauma. These photos, taken after fasciotomy surgery on January 26th and another irrigation and debridement surgery on January 28th, show the brutal aftermath of his ordeal. His father, Daren, shared context behind the images, offering a glimpse into the struggle Hunter and his family are enduring.

“These are some immediately after the injury pics from 1/25 to 1/31,” Daren explained. “We haven’t seen his left arm or hand yet, but the damage was profoundly worse. That’s evident from what I saw immediately after the injury, what surgeons have told us, the amount of wound vac drainage pulled daily, and the amount of pain Hunter is in.” The greatest concern right now, Daren adds, is one section of Hunter’s hand. That area is the one doctors are watching most closely in their attempt to avoid amputation. Every hour, every decision, could make the difference between keeping Hunter’s hands and losing them.

The reality of the situation is hard to grasp. The images are tough to look at, but they are a necessary part of Hunter’s journey—a reminder of just how far he’s come and how much further he still has to go. And through it all, Hunter remains himself. He is still a son, a husband, and an uncle who cherishes the moments he gets to spend with his family. Despite the unimaginable pain and uncertainty, Hunter’s spirit hasn’t wavered.

Daren shared a heartfelt moment from Hunter’s hospital room: “Lots of visitors today,” he wrote. “I watched Hunter smile and eat it up. Thank all of y’all for your love, support, food, snacks—everything.” In the midst of this trial, Hunter finds strength in the love and support that surrounds him. The family’s focus remains on the hope that, day by day, Hunter can continue to make progress, even though nothing is guaranteed yet. Doctors are cautiously hopeful, but the recovery is still very much up in the air.

The road ahead will be long and difficult, and Hunter’s recovery will take time, strength, and determination. He faces each day not knowing what the next will bring, but with the unwavering support of his family and a community that loves him, he continues to fight. Every update brings a new piece of hope and a reminder of how precious life is, especially when we’re given a second chance. Hunter is more than just a patient; he’s a son, a husband, and an uncle, with a family who is committed to being by his side through every challenge.

If you have a moment, please take the time to say a prayer for Hunter. His journey is far from over, and your words of encouragement, your prayers, and your support can make a world of difference. As Hunter faces each new day, the messages he receives from those who care about him offer him strength to keep going. His fight is one of resilience, and with each message, each prayer, he is reminded that he’s not alone.

And if you could leave Hunter one message—what would you want him to hear as he continues to fight? Would you remind him of how strong he is? Would you tell him to hold on, to keep fighting, and that no matter what happens, he is loved beyond measure?

Hunter’s story is one of courage, pain, and hope. He is facing the impossible, but with every step, he is proving that he’s not backing down. It’s a fight that will take everything he’s got, but with his family, friends, and the support of everyone around him, there’s a glimmer of hope that the battle will be won, one day at a time.