Community Rallies to Help 2-Year-Old Erick and Family

Erick Taylor has spent nearly two months in the PICU fighting for his life after a sudden medical crisis.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:47am

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The Vian community is coming together in prayer and support for 2-year-old Erick Taylor, who has spent nearly two months in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) fighting for his life after a sudden and devastating medical crisis. Erick has undergone multiple surgeries, including the amputation of both lower legs due to severe infection, and is battling diabetes, lung issues, and other complications. His family is facing mounting medical expenses and has set up fundraisers to help cover immediate and long-term costs.

Why it matters

The community's outpouring of support for Erick and his family highlights the importance of coming together to help those in need, especially young children facing life-threatening medical challenges. Erick's story also sheds light on the financial burdens that families can face when dealing with complex, long-term medical issues.

The details

Erick was first airlifted to Children's Hospital on Nov. 20, 2025, after rapidly developing serious health issues. He was later diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and a severe bloodstream infection. At one point, he was placed on ECMO, a form of heart and lung bypass used as life support. Doctors have also been working to treat a dangerous infection known as pseudomonas and complications involving Erick's left lung, including a bronchopulmonary fistula. Surgeons have amputated Erick's right foot above the ankle and his left leg due to extensive damage from the infection. He remains sedated, on pain medication, and on a ventilator as doctors continue to monitor his recovery.

  • Erick was first airlifted to Children's Hospital on Nov. 20, 2025.
  • On Jan. 14, 2026, Erick was undergoing surgery for a wound vacuum procedure.
  • In early January 2026, surgeons amputated Erick's right foot above the ankle and his left leg.

The players

Erick Taylor

A 2-year-old boy who has spent nearly two months in the PICU fighting for his life after a sudden medical crisis.

Michelle Smith

Erick's great-grandmother, who has been providing updates on his condition.

Loy Taylor

Erick's grandfather, who has set up a fundraising account to help cover the family's medical and living expenses.

Landon Taylor

Erick's father, who lost his job during the ordeal.

Brianna Taylor

Erick's mother, who has been on FMLA leave to be by his side.

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What they’re saying

“Please keep Erick and his mom and dad in your prayers today. Erick needs prayers for his diabetes, the infection, his left lung and the healing of his legs after the amputations.”

— Michelle Smith, Erick's great-grandmother (viannews.com)

“He has a very long road ahead.”

— Loy Taylor, Erick's grandfather (viannews.com)

“He is a warrior.”

— Michelle Smith, Erick's great-grandmother (viannews.com)

“He's fighting as hard as he can. Please, please, keep praying for my baby.”

— Landon and Brianna Taylor (viannews.com)

What’s next

The family is hoping to raise funds for a diabetic alert dog to help manage Erick's Type 1 diabetes, as well as funds for the ongoing costs of his prosthetics as he grows.

The takeaway

The Vian community's outpouring of support for Erick and his family during this difficult time is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and the importance of coming together to help those in need, especially young children facing life-threatening medical challenges.