Doctors Work To Rebuild Toddler's Leg After Lawnmower Incident: Family

CARY, IL — A 3-year-old Cary boy who was seriously injured when he was run over by a lawnmower over the Labor Day weekend underwent a "rare and specialized" procedure last week meant to help give him "the best chance for an active future," his family said.

On August 30, Cohen Liggett was riding on an industrial-type lawnmower with a family member in the 28700 block of West Kristy Lane in unincorporated Cary on August 30 when it's believed he jumped or fell off, police said.

"It appears the mower requires operators to be in a standing position. We believe the child was initially in front of the operator. The operator of the mower began to reverse, and the child either fell off or jumped off," Covelli told Patch. "Unfortunately, the mower deck rolled over one of the child’s legs, causing major injuries."

• Boy, 3, Was Riding With Family Member On Lawnmower Prior To Leg Being Run Over: Police

A neighbor used a T-shirt to make a tourniquet, which was applied above the child's wounds to stop the bleeding, authorities said.

The child was taken by ambulance to a local hospital and then taken by helicopter to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood in critical condition. He remained in critical condition Saturday evening, authorities told Patch.

Since then, Cohen has undergone three surgeries and two procedures to manage and treat his wound, according to a GoFundMe set up to help offset the cost of ongoing medical expenses for Cohen. His family has consulted with specialists from across the country to try and determine the best path forward for the young boy, according to a September 15 update from his family.

As part of path forward, the boy was expected to undergo a rare and specialized procedure called rotationplasty last week.

"It’s a rare and specialized procedure where the doctors will remove the part of his leg affected and use the healthy lower portion of his leg to help rebuild the area," his family said in the GoFundMe update prior to the surgery. "His foot will be repositioned in a way that, with a custom prosthetic, will function like a knee joint. This surgery gives Cohen the best chance for an active future. With the help of a prosthetic, he’ll be able to walk, run, play, and do all the things a kid should be able to do."

His family said Cohen has a long road to recovery ahead.

"These next stages are critical in helping him adapt, regain strength, and thrive with his new mobility," according to the GoFundMe.

As of Thursday, more than $101,000 has been raised as part of the GoFundMe. Those wishing to donate can do so here.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.