Former Steelers player says his 9-month-old son stable after surgery

Former Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Ryan Switzer says his 9-month-old son Christian is stable and out of surgery to control bleeding.

Christian is finally out of surgery. The GI specialist found several sites of bleeding. He took samples that were sent off to biopsy to see what could be causing it, I guess. He’s stable right now and resting. pic.twitter.com/56vMmRkJVS

— Ryan Switzer (@Switz) March 7, 2021

Switzer originally reached out on Twitter for support on Saturday after his son woke up in his own blood and had been diagnosed with covid-19.

Switzer appealed for prayers for his family, and he has been documenting the experience throughout the weekend.

“I’m asking everyone that this tweet comes across to please just take a second and say a prayer for our son Christian. He’s 9 months and currently in the hospital after he woke up in his blood. He’s Covid positive,” Switzer wrote on Twitter. “The doctors are still trying to find the source of the bleeding. He’s been getting fluids and medicine as he waits for a CT scan. They’ve made us aware that he needs a blood transfusion. Praying that he avoids surgery. Only 1 parent is allowed in the room so my wife is with him.”

Switzer wrote that Christian went through three transfusions Saturday and underwent surgery on Sunday to stop the bleeding.

Despite all that’s occurred, Switzer made sure to thank those who have offered encouragement.

We’re heartbroken this has happened to our baby boy, but we’re also overwhelmed by the amount of people who have reached out in support of Christian. This has been the toughest day of Gabie and I’s life. Please continue to pray Christian stabilizes and makes it through surgery.

— Ryan Switzer (@Switz) March 7, 2021

Former Steelers teammates were quick to offer words of prayer and encouragement.

Sorry to hear this Switz! Praying for Christian’s swift and complete healing. May God strengthen and comfort you and Gabie.??

— Josh Dobbs (@josh_dobbs1) March 6, 2021

Thinking about you and your family Switz!

— TJ Watt (@_TJWatt) March 6, 2021

praying 4 you and your family bro

— Eric Ebron (@Ebron85) March 7, 2021

Switzer played 25 games for the Steelers in the 2018 and 2019 seasons, making 44 receptions for 280 yards and one touchdown. The Steelers cut Switzer in September, and he spent parts of the 2020 season on the Cleveland Browns’ practice squad. The Browns signed Switzer to the reserve/futures list in January.