Fighting the “Silent Killer”
May 6, 2019
Fighting “the Silent Killer”
For the past few months, we’ve been praying and hoping as Becca, my sister, went from doctor to doctor, clinic to clinic, and eventually the hospital over an unknown infection that was bothering her on her leg. They said it was ringworm, an infection from “dirty water at work,” a spider bite, etc. She heard everything but none of the treatments seemed to help; most only caused severe pain where there hadn’t been pain. Her main complaints were a growing discoloration, open wound that wouldn’t heal, and itching.
Last week, on Friday, May 3, 2019, she finally had a serious answer. A wound specialist here in Saint Augustine told her for sure (results of several tests) that what was causing her leg problems was a condition that usually affects those over 55 – burst varicose veins causing blood clots. This is often called “the silent killer” because there aren’t any painful signs. If left untreated, the blood clots begin to travel. Once a blood clot reaches a vital organ, it causes death.
Doppler tests (like a sonogram) showed several blood clots. Three are already traveling. The specialist stressed immediacy. Becca was glad to have an answer, but she had no clue how she could pay for the six (6!) surgeries needed as soon as possible. Without counting medications, aftercare such as dressings, lack of income from missing work, and the looming bills from previous misdiagnoses, she will need $18,000.
Then a series of God-orchestrated tumblers began to fall; family volunteered to help, Becca found she could “cash in” her vacation time for an emergency, and her credit card limit increased – she was able to gather enough funds to start one of the six surgeries. Her first one is scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, 2019. We are praying and believing God will guide the surgeon’s hands, heal Becca, and cover medical costs for her.
Several of us suggested using “GoFundMe” as I always help when I see one local. Becca didn’t want to ask; so we decided to do it for her. We love our sister and although, yes, I’m sure over time she’d make it work – she needs this now. Without having a big enough fund to grab into, we have each other. Each of us, giving what we can, helping as she does for us, we can all pull together and help Becca.
The reason we like “GoFundMe” and local networks that ask for help is because it shows the power of each of us in our community. One woman needs help moving – pretty much has the whole job packed and moved in a weekend. My midwife is constantly letting us know about moms, babies, or families in need: I always try to give. Becca always gives. I find hope in seeing people help each other. I enjoy helping at food pantries and raising money for charities. I love these because everyone’s little bit helps to make big things work.
Becca started crying tears of gratefulness when she realized people donated shortly after we set it up. Thank you for showing our community’s heart. This is how we fight the silent killer.
Please pray for Becca now and if you can, please consider donating.
Thanks for reading!
Type at you later…
~Nancy Tart
1 Comment