Tuesday, October 28th, around midnight, my mom woke up gasping for air, having what seemed to be a panic attack. It wasn't until early Wednesday morning that we found out she had more going on at the time. My dad took her to the local hospital, where she was placed on a BiPAP machine and given antibiotics for pneumonia. Her lungs had fluid in and around them, making it difficult for her to breathe. Not only were her lungs having trouble, but we found out her heart was too weak to function on its own. Unfortunately, the hospital she was at could not take proper care of her needs, and she was transported to Gainesville to the cardiovascular ICU. Since then, they found a major blockage in front of her heart, which was causing the weakness. The cardiologist was successful in placing a stent in, and the surgery went well. She currently is on a ventilator, helping her breathe, as well as two sedations to keep her calm. However, she is slowly coming off the ventilator day by day, as well as both sedations are being weaned off as we watch her maintain healthy vitals. Each day is a new day, and we are thankful for any improvements she makes. This doesn't mean the battle is over yet; she still has a long road to recovery.

My mom has always been the strongest person I know as well as the backbone to our family. During this time, between her husband, my sister, and myself, we have been taking turns staying with her. Unfortunately, bills do not stop just because your world is upside down. My dad would love to be here with my mom every day until she makes a full recovery, but he will need help to cover the time off work as well as the cost to stay over here with her.