We have lost Aida

Early this morning, I received Gaby’s messages with the news I had been dreading. Aida had died during the night.

When I spoke to the hospital, Andrea explained that she had deteriorated as the night went on. Her muscles had become more rigid, and the spasms had intensified despite treatment. The team caring for her could not save her.

Her surgery had gone well. But removing her destroyed leg could not undo what the tetanus was already doing to her body.

Gaby explained it to me when we spoke: the antibiotics were treating the bacteria, but they could not eliminate the toxin already released. Removing the infected tissue was essential. She was also receiving continuous medication to control the spasms, pain relief and close monitoring. Even with that treatment, we could still lose her.

I asked him whether anything else might have changed the outcome. He told me he had consulted specialists in neurology and internal medicine at Valencia Sur. They had reviewed the treatment and supported the approach being taken. We had been searching for other options because we all wanted to give her a chance.

Knowing that does not make this morning any easier.

Aida had survived so much before reaching us. We wanted to get her through this, bring her home and see her learn to walk on three legs. We wanted to find her a family. Losing her now, after finally getting her help, is very hard to accept.

To everyone who donated and followed her story: thank you. You made it possible for her to receive treatment and care when she desperately needed them. I wish I could be sharing a different ending with you.

I’m so sorry, Aida. We wanted so much more for you.

Viktor