Help Support Bella Urena
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Hello all, my name is Bella.
On May 7th, I experienced my entire life change in seconds unexpectedly and unimaginably. I was one of the victims injured in the triple shooting that occurred at Gala Nightclub in Miami Beach. I not only experienced it that night, but am a living reminder of it every day since.
Parts of that night are very clear and others are blurred memories. I’ll never forget hearing gunshots and the sound of bullets flying past me as I instantly collapsed and told my bestfriend that I think I was shot, she then told me she was shot too. I remember the pain of my wounds and I can remember the pain I felt in my heart seeing this horrible tragedy unfold before me. I remember the rush to the hospital, feeling a deep sense of loneliness and fear. Time just didn't feel like it was on my side that night. I was afraid, so afraid that I would never see my family again. For them, a call they never expected but always feared receiving.
In this moment it all seemed so unreal. I was suddenly fighting for my life, losing an excessive amount of blood, and unsure if I was going to make it. Finally I was rushed by ambulance to Ryder Trauma Center where I was told I had been shot four times. I had to undergo emergency surgery to attempt to retrieve and extract the bullets that struck my liver and kidney.
After two major surgeries I was transferred to the ICU where I was shockingly made aware that one of the bullets was a half a centimeter away from paralyzing me for life. The doctors also informed me that they were unable to remove two bullets which remain in my spine leaving a fracture, and my arm which left my fingers and wrist with no sensation or movement. However they were able to save my major organs.
I was discharged from Ryder Trauma Center weeks after. There are challenging months ahead of me. It is a vulnerable thing to admit, but recovery has been very hard. There are layers of my recovery I have to face every day. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. Making me relive that pain and that moment once again.
I am a hardworking student aspiring to be a nurse. I also work at a reconstructive surgery center as a medical assistant. I am a long way from returning as I was. Doctors tell us that even in improving conditions, the process for a full recovery will take months of care and subsequent rehabilitation.
I decided to create this space because many family members and friends have asked if there is anything they can do to help. After this tragedy I am unable to work or physically attend school. Throughout my recovery I will need 24 hour care as well.
I thank you all so much for helping me proceed at a time I couldn't have imagined. As I process and move forward, your support is very much appreciated. I never imagined being in this position but it is humbling. To experience your love, prayers, and support is unlike anything else. The small and big acts have all held equal weight in my heart during this incredibly traumatizing time in my life. I will never finish finding the words to thank you all.
On May 7th, I experienced my entire life change in seconds unexpectedly and unimaginably. I was one of the victims injured in the triple shooting that occurred at Gala Nightclub in Miami Beach. I not only experienced it that night, but am a living reminder of it every day since.
Parts of that night are very clear and others are blurred memories. I’ll never forget hearing gunshots and the sound of bullets flying past me as I instantly collapsed and told my bestfriend that I think I was shot, she then told me she was shot too. I remember the pain of my wounds and I can remember the pain I felt in my heart seeing this horrible tragedy unfold before me. I remember the rush to the hospital, feeling a deep sense of loneliness and fear. Time just didn't feel like it was on my side that night. I was afraid, so afraid that I would never see my family again. For them, a call they never expected but always feared receiving.
In this moment it all seemed so unreal. I was suddenly fighting for my life, losing an excessive amount of blood, and unsure if I was going to make it. Finally I was rushed by ambulance to Ryder Trauma Center where I was told I had been shot four times. I had to undergo emergency surgery to attempt to retrieve and extract the bullets that struck my liver and kidney.
After two major surgeries I was transferred to the ICU where I was shockingly made aware that one of the bullets was a half a centimeter away from paralyzing me for life. The doctors also informed me that they were unable to remove two bullets which remain in my spine leaving a fracture, and my arm which left my fingers and wrist with no sensation or movement. However they were able to save my major organs.
I was discharged from Ryder Trauma Center weeks after. There are challenging months ahead of me. It is a vulnerable thing to admit, but recovery has been very hard. There are layers of my recovery I have to face every day. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. Making me relive that pain and that moment once again.
I am a hardworking student aspiring to be a nurse. I also work at a reconstructive surgery center as a medical assistant. I am a long way from returning as I was. Doctors tell us that even in improving conditions, the process for a full recovery will take months of care and subsequent rehabilitation.
I decided to create this space because many family members and friends have asked if there is anything they can do to help. After this tragedy I am unable to work or physically attend school. Throughout my recovery I will need 24 hour care as well.
I thank you all so much for helping me proceed at a time I couldn't have imagined. As I process and move forward, your support is very much appreciated. I never imagined being in this position but it is humbling. To experience your love, prayers, and support is unlike anything else. The small and big acts have all held equal weight in my heart during this incredibly traumatizing time in my life. I will never finish finding the words to thank you all.
Organizer
Bella Urena
Organizer
Miami, FL