Emotional Return to Dodgers
Freddie Freeman returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup on Monday night after missing eight games to be with his ailing 3-year-old son. He was warmly welcomed by a hug from Phillies star Bryce Harper and received a standing ovation from the crowd and players.
Standing Ovation and First At-Bat
Freeman received a standing ovation during his first at-bat. He acknowledged the crowd by removing his helmet and touching his heart. Despite striking out in his first inning, the crowd chanted "Freddie! Freddie!" before he singled in the third inning, receiving a consoling embrace from Harper.
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Son's Medical Diagnosis and Struggle
Freeman's son, Maximus, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. After an initial misdiagnosis, Maximus' condition worsened rapidly, leading to paralysis and the need for a ventilator.
Hospitalization and Treatment
Maximus was hospitalized and treated with intravenous immunoglobulin. Freeman and his wife, Chelsea, spent countless hours at his bedside in the pediatric intensive care unit. Small signs of improvement, like a shoulder shrug, gave them hope during this difficult period.
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Miraculous Recovery
Maximus showed significant improvement, leading to the removal of the ventilator. Freeman described the moment he could hold his son again as incredibly emotional and uplifting.
Family Support and Team Solidarity
Freeman's teammates and the Dodgers' staff showed their support by wearing blue #MaxStrong T-shirts. The baseball community, including his former team the Atlanta Braves, and Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo, reached out with messages of hope and support.
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