Blake Haxton was captain of the Upper Arlington High School rowing team when he was sidelined in March by the sudden, virulent infection which required the amputation of both legs.
Blake's father Steve Haxton spoke exclusively with 10TV's Andrea Cambern on Wednesday about his son's recovery.
"By the grace of God, a lot of prayers and some fantastic doctors we're still here to talk about it," Steve said.
Blake, who is 18 years old, first noticed a cramp in his leg. The necrotizing fasciitis spread through his body with deadly speed, and within days Blake was on life support.
"They told us he's got seven, eight days, and we'll see how it goes with this massive infection," Steve told 10TV News. The family was told to prepare for the worst.
Doctors were forced to amputate both of Blake's legs. He has endured 17 surgeries.
"To save his life, we had to stop the dying embers, if you would, in the middle of the flames," Steve said.
A standout athlete, whom some called the best high school rower in Ohio, rose from those flames. Doctors at Ohio State University said Blake's well-conditioned heart carried him through what few would be able to endure.
While Blake could not attend his high school graduation, he sent a message to classmates:
"Know this, that as you face tests and trials in the future that it is not the trials, but your faith and your reaction to them that will be the measure of you true character," Blake wrote.
Blake is now in rehab at Ohio State University Medical Center, learning to live with life's new challenges.
Steve Haxton knows his son's life will never be the same, but he believes it will be lived with purpose. Disguised in tragedy, God gave him a gift.
"I've got a bigger kid now than I had when I came (to the hospital)," Steve said. "Heather and I have a bigger son now than we did."
Blake plans to attend Ohio State University in the fall.
This Saturday, some of his nurses and friends are holding a walkathon at Upper Arlington High School to raise awareness of necrotizing fasciitis and funds for Blake's mobility devices.
Watch 10TV News and refresh 10TV.com for additional information.
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