Josiah Wiedman American teenager injured by lightning strike Date of Birth: 01.01.2005 Country: USA

1. A Teenager Struck by Lightning
2. The Impact
3. Medical Condition and Recovery
4. Aftermath
5. Lightning Strikes and Survival Rates

A Teenager Struck by Lightning

On August 8th, 2018, a 13-year-old boy named Josiah Widman was struck by lightning while walking through a park in El Mirage, Arizona, with his friend. The incident was caught on video, showing Josiah flying nearly 10 feet into the air after being struck by the lightning bolt.

The Impact

Josiah's friend, Javier Tapia, witnessed the impact and called out to him as he lost consciousness. A bystander, Cory, rushed to Josiah's aid and performed CPR until paramedics arrived. The paramedics transported Josiah to Phoenix Children's Hospital, where he remained in a medically induced coma for three days.

Medical Condition and Recovery

Josiah sustained a concussion, a skull fracture, burns on his leg, and temporary memory loss. However, his condition improved after coming out of the coma, and he was discharged from the hospital in good health. Doctors believe that his skateboard, which had metal components, may have helped to ground the lightning and reduce the severity of the injury.

Aftermath

Josiah's family is grateful for the support and prayers they received during his hospitalization. They are currently raising funds to cover his medical expenses through a GoFundMe campaign. Josiah has become a local celebrity at his school and is feeling almost completely recovered.

Lightning Strikes and Survival Rates

Lightning strikes are relatively rare, affecting approximately one in 1.2 million people; however, around 90% of those struck survive. The survival rate increases with prompt medical attention and the absence of heart complications. In Josiah's case, the presence of a nearby bystander and the grounding effect of his skateboard likely contributed to his survival.