Andress High School Student In Medically Induced Coma Due To Dehydration

For a while now on the Mike and Tricia Facebook page, I've done a goofy take on the weather forecast.  I usually make fun of how your hair will frizz or droop because of the heat and humidity, but this weather story is no laughing matter.

14 year old Andrew Rodriguez was practicing with the football team Monday afternoon when he became ill and was taken to the hospital.  His mother said she was at Andrew's practice for the last 30 minutes keeping an eye on him but "I'm still watching machines breathe for my son".

Monica Rodriguez told our news partners at ABC7 that Andrew had been cleared for football after getting a pre-season physical.  Doctor's have put Andrew into a medically induced coma because of the dehydration he suffered at practice.

High school football teams are beginning their football bootcamps in anticipation of the upcoming fall season, but the players aren't the only ones who need to be careful with the triple digit heat we're going to be seeing for the next week or so. 

You hear these precautions all the time, but it's good to hear them again:

Wear light colored clothing that breathes.

If you're going to be outside for extended periods of time, make sure you use a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Try not to do strenuous physical activity during the peak heat hours of 11am to 6pm.

Never leave children or pets in the car during the summer months.

Check on elderly family members and neighbors to make sure they are staying hydrated and cool.

And finally, if you are having trouble paying your electric bill and are not using your air-conditioner or fans to stay cool, contact the El Paso Electric company for help.

Our prayers go out to the Rodriguez family.