A family is anxiously awaiting word from an infectious disease specialist and an orthopedic surgeon as they seek clarity on lab results, CT scans, and the next steps in treatment for a severely crushed foot injury.
Doctors have indicated that several days of IV antibiotics and home health care may be required. But with multiple specialists involved and new information arriving by the hour, the situation feels overwhelming.
“He’s still in a substantial amount of pain,” his partner shared. “I mean, his foot is crushed.”
Complicating matters are concerns about delays in care, alleged gaps in appropriate medical treatment, questionable radiology interpretations, and wound care issues. The family also points to insurance hurdles, saying their HMO policy appeared to “deny first and ask questions second,” allowing the injury to rapidly progress.
Determined not to let anything slip through the cracks, she is documenting everything — asking detailed questions, taking notes, and photographing his foot hourly. “I just feel like I’m missing something or forgetting something,” she admitted.
The emotional toll has been just as heavy. Dave, known in their home as the fixer — the one who builds, wires, repairs, and handles just about everything (except laundry, dishes, and cleaning toilets, she jokes) — is now the one in need of care.
“He’s usually the one taking care of me,” she said. “Seeing him in pain and not being able to really help feels so defeating.”
For now, they wait. They pray. They express gratitude for the outpouring of support. And they continue to advocate for the best possible care.
If anyone is looking for her, she says, they’ll know exactly where to find her — sitting in an uncomfortable hospital chair, right beside his bed.
“In sickness and in health. For better or worse.”
