Mary Swan

I survived sepsis. I had never heard of the word until July 26th of 2018. I perforated my colon and was diagnosed with septic shock. (Sepsis and Perforated Bowel) People need to be made aware of the importance of the health of their digestive system. I was constipated all my life and not one medical person had ever told me of the consequences of constipation. Even the EMTs misdiagnosed me.

My blood pressure was low. I was not triaged when I was taken to a hospital ER. My daughter took me to a minor ER where I was diagnosed, stabilized, and transferred to a major hospital in town for colectomy and colostomy, which I had for nine months. I have PTSD and hernias I need to correct. (Sepsis and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) This has been a major change in my life. I know I was spared for a reason. I thank God for my family, for without their clear thinking I would not be here.

I called the fire chief soon after to tell him his EMTs needed training to recognize the symptoms of sepsis. I understand this is being done now. The initial ER visit (drop off) and their basic dismissal of my symptoms was unconscionable.