Help Mama Mary focus on healing not $ burden

Hello, I am Heidi Herd and I am hoping to raise money to alleviate the medical and personal financial burden on my mama, Mary Benz,  as she fights for her life.

On January 1, 2021 my mama had to be rushed to the hospital and was diagnosed with an inflamed sciatic nerves. She was given a cortisone shot and pain meds and sent home. Two days later I had to rush her back to the ER only to be sent home a few hours later with more pain pills and steroids.  On January 7, 2021 my brother took her to an appointment and her doctor said she needed to immediately be taken to the hospital and not where we previously went as she had been misdiagnosed and improperly treated.

On January 7, 2021 our mama was admitted to West Allis Memorial Hospital and diagnosed with acute kidney failure, sepsis, fluid build up in her left knee and lower back. She had lost all mobility for a period of time. She was alone and afraid. Her kidney function has improved, however some permanent damage has occurred. The sepsis is under control, yet she will be on an antibiotic for life, and she currently has a picc line to receive 4 doses of antibiotics daily. Two surgeries were performed to drain the more than 3 gallons of retaining fluids from her body.  She had a catheter and a bedpan, 3 blood transfusions totaling 4 units of blood, and vitals remained unstable for over 2 weeks. 

Now we begin the OT/PT journey. While Marygained some mobility in her hands and feet, she was unable to sit up or stand. They used a life and a board to transport her to therapy. She hasmade some progress, and was stable enough to be transferred to a rehabilitation facility on February 1st. we have biweekly care meetings, yet still no visitation. She has had to be transported to the hospital for another blood transfusion.  She has stood up 30 seconds. She attempts  to sit in a chair or wheelchair for 2 hours a day. 

Unfortunately,  on Sunday February 15, another obstacle arose and  she was diagnosed with a mild case of pneumonia. She is now on more antibiotics and a probiotic along with oxygen.  Still she remains positive.

I’m so proud of her positive outlook and fight to not only survive but thrive. While we can’t be there physically we can be with her spiritually and with moral support, compassion, care, and concern. Please help me lift a burden we have control over and let’s unite to give Mary the gift of love and support. 

Thank you to all the beautiful people that have taken the time to read this story! I’m grateful  for you and I know Mary is too! 

If you would like to reach out by mail or phone please see the information below.

LindenGrove Menomonee Falls
W180N8071 Town Hall Rd,
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

With Love & Gratitude,

Heidi Herd (Benz)