Patricia T.

Twice I was hospitalized with sepsis. In 2016 my small intestine ulcerated and suddenly perforated.  (Sepsis and Perforated Bowel) A talented surgeon saved my life by patching the hole. I was at death’s door for 10 days. And came through. Thank you, Jesus. My doctor visited my room before discharging me and said, ‘You almost died. If it happens again, you might not be so lucky. Get in right away if you think something is wrong.’

In 2018 a gallstone blocked my pancreatic duct. (Sepsis and Gallstones) A friend drove me to the same hospital ER. The triage team said it would be a long wait. After an hour I was ready to vomit and knew I would make a mess. So, as triage saw no emergency, my friend drove me home. I vomited every 3 hours all night. By morning I drove myself to a different hospital ER where they immediately ran bloodwork and scans. The doctors got me into ICU. I had sepsis, a lung infection, pneumonia, and my kidneys were shutting down.  (Sepsis and Pneumonia) Four days later the pancreatic duct blockage was removed along with my gallbladder. I was discharged within 7 days.

Now, in 2022, I am going through similar stomach pains from 2016. But due to COVID-19 I cannot get the tests that will determine if my ulcer is back and beginning to perforate. If it does then I will be gone. My advice to all is: fight for your health care and never let a triage team minimize your illness. If you aren’t ready to die, be persistent. It is not normal for an adult to get sick suddenly. Get help ASAP.