From ESPNBoston.com:

 

BOSTON -- On July 13, 2012, Red Sox minor league outfielder Ryan Westmoreland underwent a life-threatening surgery due to complications of a cavernous malformation on his brain. 

The Portsmouth, R.I., native first had surgery to remove the malformation on March 16, 2010. Between surgeries, Westmoreland slowly began his goal of returning to the baseball field and served as an inspiration to the other prospects in the Red Sox organization. 

Since his setback last summer, Westmoreland is doing well and continues to rehab in Boston and Rhode Island. 

“Really good, actually,” he said. “I’ve been seeing some doctors and nothing but good news, which is what I want to hear. I’m making good progress.” 

After the Red Sox selected him in the fifth round of the 2008 draft, Westmoreland quickly showed promise as a five-tool player. In 2009, he showcased those abilities at Single-A Lowell and hit .296 with seven home runs, 35 RBIs and 19 stolen bases in 60 games for the Spinners. 

But in spring 2010, the malformation in his brain began to bleed and Westmoreland needed emergency surgery. During his recovery, the goal of playing professional baseball again helped him battle through the life-changing rehab. 

It’s no different this time. 

“I’m always thinking about [baseball],” he said. “But we’re going to take it slow again and kind of play it by ear and see how I’m feeling. Hopefully I get to go down to Florida and they can evaluate me down there. I hope I get to go down there by February. That’s what I’m shooting for, but again, I’ll confirm that with the doctors and the medical staff, but that’s what I’m hoping for. 

“In a way it’s the same, but it’s pretty serious stuff and the second time around made it a lot harder. Again, I’ve been able to take a step back and I’m partially learning from the last time I’ve been able to take a step back and realize what’s the highest priority and go from there. There’s no question about my drive and I’m definitely still optimistic about my future.”

Having dealt with two life-threatening brain surgeries, Westmoreland says he’s better prepared to deal with it this time around. He also realizes he’s in a different situation than most pro athletes and the last two and half years have been difficult. Despite all he’s dealt with, he has an amazing outlook. 

“It’s certainly frustrating,” he said. “Being what I’ve been through is not your average baseball injury, so that was kind of tough. It’s not like having Tommy John or a labrum tear, it’s a lot more serious than that. It’s tough as an athlete, but you have to take a step back and be thankful for what you have. Being alive, certainly at this point, is more important than being a professional athlete.”

Can only wish the best for this kid!

Wow.  Thanks for the post.

Just to see him get an AB in MLB would be great. I wish him the best.

I think he deserves to be brought up, when appropriate, to give him that chance. Let's face it, we've seen players do badly without brain injuries. They should at least let him play. And I think it's lovely that fans keep up on his progress. I'm sure it means alot to him.

This guy makes Rudy Reuttiger look like a slacker.  

Goof read.  thanks.  Westmoreland's outlook is inspirational.  I pary he gets to suit up and play for the Sox, even if he never becomes that great outfielder we all anticipated three years ago.

great story, great outlook by RW. i believe he will fight through it and eventually make it to the MLB.

the human brain is the most amazing thing on the planet, its pension for self preservation and adaptation to physical and chemical deformities is mind blowing (pun intended). Obviously every case is different but this kid has a warriors mentality and that can only help him in his endeavors. i wish him well

Alot of lessons of determination and perserverance as well as a proper outlook on life can be learned from this kid......it would be a great if he gets healthy enough to play ball again,at whatever level...but more importantly that he stays healthy and lives a good life.

He'll make it one day...

Doesn't seem like there is an alternative given his mindset and dedication...

My son & I got to meet him when he played for Lowell, very nice kid. Wish him only the best in his recovery.

In response to mrmojo1120's comment:

I have been thinking about and praying this kid makes it back since the original surgery.  At this point being alive and having a fairly normal life is much more important than making the bigs.

Good luck Ryan!

 

In response to craze4sox's comment:

Agreed, he has earned a place in our hearts and hopefully  on the emerald carpet of Fenway.

All good sentiments that I agree with in the strongest way possible. He had superstar potential. If he can't get his playing career back on track, as a minimum, they should at least do for him what the Marlins did for Adam Greenberg.

In response to nhsteven's comment:

I believe one day that will happen. As it should.

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