Heather Simmons
On January 16, 2006, I was placed in a medically induced coma and I survived. I was given a second chance at life. During the week prior to my admittance, I was misdiagnosed as having a viral infection when in fact it was a strep throat bacterial infection. (Sepsis and Strep Throat) My symptoms progressed quickly; a severe sore throat, fever, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, and no appetite. The slightest touch to my skin was so painful it became unbearable. My father rushed me to the hospital where I was evaluated. My heart rate was 157 bpm, my blood pressure was 84/52 and my respiratory rate was 39. I had extensive bilateral consolidation and cystic lesions throughout both lung zones and my kidneys were failing.
Once at the hospital, my condition was diagnosed. I had Lemierre’s syndrome (postanginal septicemia), “the forgotten disease,” which affects healthy young adults. It is defined as an acute pharyngeal infection with the anaerobe fusobacterium necrophorum, followed by a septic thrombosis of the internal jugular vein. I had thrombocytopenia, septic shock, acute renal failure and ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome). (Sepsis and ARDS)
With the hopes of saving my life, the doctors placed me in a medically induced coma for four days in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. I was a 16-year-old junior in high school. I wasn’t worrying about homework, essays or prom; I was fighting for my life. I woke up without any recollection of what had happened to me, feeling not only confused, but scared. My voice was raspy from the ventilator, my body was weak and I needed daily physical therapy to help me walk. After a dreadful 15 day stay in the PICU, I was finally released with a peripherally inserted catheter for a four week home treatment of antibiotics and nutrients.
Several months later, I developed an abscess on my tonsils and needed to be re-admitted for a tonsillectomy. Since then, I have been struggling with my health. Even after 11 long years; I still have chronic pain, anxiety, kidney issues, lung problems and a severely weakened immune system. (Sepsis and Post-Sepsis Syndrome) However I never let my health get in the way of living my life to the fullest and with laughter and love.
I was the third case at my hospital to have Lemierre’s syndrome and I survived. The obstacles I’ve had to overcome in the short 27 years of my life have taught me to appreciate life in a way I cannot describe. Without my struggles, I would never have found my strengths. I look at the world and ask myself “how can I help” and “how can I make a difference?” I know first-hand how precious life is and that it can be taken away instantly and unexpectedly. This is why I have decided to become a nurse. My passion to give back to others is a natural part of who I am and this is who I’m meant to become.
