Andrea became very sick mid November, and was unexpectedly hospitalized for a large and extensive portal vein thrombosis. The portal vein is a major blood vessel that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Extensive tests have been performed as to find out why this has happened. Several things have been ruled out thus far, leading to more questions than answers. This is a very rare situation, and tests are ongoing.

Unfortunately, due to not knowing how long this clot has been there, it has caused complications to her organs. She has splenic infarct, which in simpler terms, the tissue of her spleen has died due to not receiving adequate blood supply. Her intestines have also been affected and she has intestinal ischemia, which is also caused by a lack of blood flow. This all can cause irreversible damage and unfortunately carries a risk of death, and Andrea is already feeling the effects of these complications as she hasn’t been able to eat more than a couple bites per meal due to the severe pain that follows, along with vomiting, leading to dehydration, weakness, and rapid weight loss.

The immediate future remains uncertain at this point due to the severity of her condition. Treatment options are limited due to how large her blood clot is. Surgery is very risky, and can cause a lot of damage, and she is at high risk of bleeding out. The goal is to get blood flowing again, before any further damage is done. However, attempts to lessen the size of the clot have not been successful as of yet, so continued tissue death is expected.

This has taken a huge toll on Andrea mentally and physically and financially as well. She has been off work this whole time. Medical bills are starting to pile up, and will continue to as she continues to receive ongoing care. I humbly ask that you consider helping her out during this difficult time if you’re able to. Times are so difficult for so many, but I know that any help she receives would be so appreciated by her, and would really touch her heart. Despite how scared she is, Andrea is fighting hard, but there are times we all need our friends and family to rally around us and lift us up during our weakest moments. Any money raised will go directly to Andrea to help offset her medical expenses while she continues treatment. A sincere thanks for reading this, and feel free to share as well. Prayers for healing and well wishes are also really needed and deeply appreciated.