The Journey

Almost two weeks ago, Melissa came to the ER with what we thought was just hip pain. Now we know that her body was starting to fight a significant infection. Her hip, bloodstream, left thumb, sternum, and aortic arch graft were all eventually impacted by that bacterial infection. Thanks to a good team of medical professionals and strong antibiotics, the infections in the hip, thumb and bloodstream are better. That leaves the sternum and aortic arch.

Today Melissa will be having a procedure to clean the area on top of her sternum. We are hopeful that this will relieve some of the constant pain Melissa feels in her chest.

The infection of the aortic arch graft is much more complicated. Because of Melissa's history, the risks of surgery to deal with the infected graft are too great. This means Melissa will live with the damaged graft and be on life-long antibiotics.

We're grateful for Melissa's medical team and the support of family and friends during this time.