11/16 UPDATE Megan is still intubated, but that’s about to change. She is becoming SO much more awake and aware. She has a strong aversion to things in and around her throat, and the tube is making her more agitated, and unable to focus on anything but its presence. Docs have made the decision to put in a trach vent on 11/17 or 11/18, and think this will really help her calm down and stabilize. Other positive updates—her eyes are definitely tracking and she can wiggle her toes on command!

So keep praying. My aunt and uncle are hanging in there. We are all exhausted and extremely grateful and humbled by the outpouring of support on here! I’m trying to get around to thanking each and every one of you individually, but it’s just constant happenings over here!

11/12 Update: Megan had a very positive CT scan and there is NO swelling in her brain! They are going to try to move onto the next steps of weaning her off of sedation very very slowly. We are starting to FINALLY see a path forward! Your kind words, shares, and support mean so much to me, and to my family. My Aunt Debbie and Uncle Pete are grateful beyond words.

On Wednesday Nov 5th, my cousin Megan Staal went into sudden cardiac arrest at home. Thankfully, her dad, my Uncle Pete, was also home at the time and was able to call 911 and administer CPR very quickly. EMS administered lifesaving care and was able to resuscitate her. She has been intubated and under periodic sedation at the hospital ever since.

Because her brain went without full oxygen during the event, she is now being treated for hypoxic brain injury. Her medical team is carefully supporting her while her brain rests, stabilizes, and slowly begins the healing process. We will know more about the extent of her injuries and her specific path of recovery in the days ahead, but what we do know, now, is that this journey will take time.

It's still not clear what caused this event. But her docs are also putting in a defibrillator to ensure it never happens again.

As a family, we are in shock. And honestly, grappling with what to do next. (And struggling to be patient as she recovers.)

Meg is only 38 years old. Her birthday's next month. She's hardworking. And caring. And wonderful. She never forgets a birthday, is steadfastly loyal, and is always there for all of us in our family, no matter what. She shows up. And it's time for all of us to show up for her.

She is the last person who deserved to experience something like this. And we want more than anything for her to recover and live her best life possible.

While there's still a lot that's unknown, Megan's next steps will likely include neuro rehabilitation and ongoing therapy to help her recover as her brain continues to wake and reconnect. These treatments—and the length of time they may be needed—come with significant cost.

We are raising funds to help with:

Megan is strong. We've seen little signs so far that prove, without a doubt, that she is in there. Healing from a brain injury happens slowly, in small steps, and we are holding onto every one of them. We have hope.

If you are able to give, thank you. Thank you thank you, thank you. Any little bit helps.

If you are not able to donate, please share this page. It would mean so much.

Thank you for keeping Megan and the rest of the Staal and Benson families in your thoughts and prayers.