In 2023, what should have been a routine medical procedure became a life-changing medical emergency. A postoperative infection progressed to sepsis and septic shock, and within days, I was fighting for my life.

My first signs were escalating pain, profound weakness, confusion, and an overwhelming feeling that something was seriously wrong. My condition deteriorated rapidly. My blood pressure dropped, my body began shutting down, and by the time I reached the hospital, I was critically ill and in septic shock.

The medical team acted quickly to save my life, but the infection had already caused devastating damage. I experienced multiple organ failure, spent months in the hospital, underwent numerous surgeries, and ultimately lost parts of both feet and several fingertips.

Surviving was only the beginning. Recovery has required ongoing surgeries, rehabilitation, and learning how to navigate life with permanent disabilities. I continue to live with the lasting effects of sepsis every day. Along the way, I have also faced the emotional impact of medical trauma and learned that healing involves far more than physical recovery.

Looking back, I wish everyone involved had recognized the warning signs of sepsis sooner and understood just how quickly it can become life-threatening. I also wish I had been better educated about what symptoms to watch for after my procedure and when to seek immediate emergency care.

My experience has shown me how important patient education, listening to patients’ concerns, and early recognition of sepsis are. Those lessons are why I now advocate for sepsis awareness, patient safety, and healthcare transparency.

My experience also transformed my purpose. I wrote Through the Ashes, a memoir about resilience, hope, and healing, to share my journey and help others feel less alone. I also created Project Phoenix, an initiative dedicated to improving patient safety by helping people access reliable healthcare information and make informed decisions before a medical crisis occurs.

My message is simple: Sepsis is a medical emergency that can happen to anyone. Know the signs. Trust your instincts. Speak up. Ask questions. Advocate for yourself and those you love.

Recovery does not always end when you leave the hospital. For many survivors, it is a lifelong journey of healing physically, emotionally, and mentally. I want survivors and their families to know they are not alone. Even after unimaginable loss, it is possible to rebuild a meaningful life and find purpose beyond survival.

If sharing my story helps even one person recognize the signs of sepsis earlier or encourages someone to advocate for themselves or a loved one, then every step of this journey has purpose.