12/01/2025
19-month-old, August, was rushed to our hospital after swallowing several tiny, high-powered magnets. Once inside the body, magnets can attract to each other across the intestines or stomach, causing tears, blockages, and life-threatening injuries.
By the time August arrived to us in the early hours of the morning, he was in severe abdominal pain. Our pediatric surgery and GI teams moved quickly. Within three hours, surgeons successfully removed the magnets and repaired multiple holes in his stomach and colon. Thanks to the quick action of his family, physicians, and our specialized care team, August is now healing well.
This December, Safe Toys and Gifts Month, August’s family is sharing their story to warn others. Toddlers can easily mistake these magnets or button batteries for candy or small toys.
If your child has abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, or you suspect magnet or button battery ingestion, don’t wait—go straight to a children’s hospital emergency department.
Hear more of August’s story in this KENS 5 story at https://christus.io/AugustsStoryKENS5