Hi,

My name is Brianna and I am writing for a cause that’s close to my heart. Mary is my best friend of 10 years. Her partner, Mel, and I are reaching out for support. We truly appreciate you taking the time to read about it. Mary was sent to the emergency room February 7th, after being electrocuted and collapsing in her home while simply blow drying her hair. She was found collapsed on the hot dryer. After Mel heroically resuscitated her, she began telling Mary about the incident and that she needed immediate medical attention for her hand, which seemed to be extremely burned at first glance.

After going into urgent care, they took one look at her hand and sent her to the emergency room. She does not have much memory of the incident due to hitting her head although we can assume the blow dryer blew a fuse and electrocuted her - but never turned off while she was holding it. Laying on the hot blow dryer while holding it for a period of time, led to serious injuries.

At first, the medical team did what they could in attempt to save the hand, but it was determined that it was unsalvageable. Both Mary and her doctors agreed that an amputation would be best in this case. After having two surgeries in one week, she is now left with an amputated hand and wrist. She also sustained 2nd and 3rd degree burns on her upper and lower arm, and minor injuries on her foot and eyelid. She is currently going to appointments twice a week to keep a close eye on the healing of her severe injuries. There is a possibility she will need to be readmitted in the hospital for skin grafts, but that is not yet determined.

Going forward, she won’t be able to receive a prosthetic hand for about 4 months. After that begins months of physical and occupational therapy. Mary was a seasoned pet stylist for almost 5 years. She loved working with the dogs as well as building relationships with clients. Due to her amputation, she will not be able to continue her grooming career, but we can hope for technology advances and make it possible!

She has a long road of recovery and healing, both physically and emotionally, but has shown nothing but strength and bravery since the first day. Her bravery and positivity throughout this unforeseen emergency is remarkable. Mel and I are reaching out for any assistance during her recovery, time without work, and legal retribution. If you are willing to contribute it is greatly appreciated and if not, we ask if you would please share Mary’s story in an effort to help her reach her goal.

We thank you.