Yolanda Arizmendi

   It’s almost 2 years since our sister was taken by COVID; we just passed 3 years since our father was taken by melanoma cancer; and here we are again, for our mother, Yolanda Arizmendi, the underlying culprit being the grief/depression of losing her loved ones within these last 3 years, including her mother and brother too. 

Update: 31 October, 2023

   From a stable condition last night until our morning update, a few hours later, the ICU nurse called me to discuss mom’s suddenly worsening condition.

   We started last Thursday with a trip to the ER from her PCP where mom was very weak due to severe dehydration and congestive heart failure: she was admitted to Valley Regional Hospital. Her kidneys started to fail in addition to respiratory failure and fluid in her lungs. Before we knew it, she had a team of doctors comprised of different specialties due to multi system failure. She was intubated and ironically, was moved into an ICU room right across where Nina was 2 years ago intubated.

   Moms blood sugar jumped high this morning and her blood pressure was really low as well as her heart rate; she also became unresponsive. A CT Scan of her brain was needed due to a suspected hemorrhage however, due to her very weak heart, the decision was made not to do the CT. Anytime mom is moved, her heart rate drops as well as her blood pressure. Doing a CT requires mom being moved from her bed to the flat surface of the machine. Additionally, mom did not have the tracheal ultrasound of her heart this morning for the same reason.

    We also made the tough decision for a DNR. None of the treatments for the various multi system failures have been improving moms condition. This evening, we asked for palliative care for mom to ensure she is comfortable and without pain for her transcendence whenever that happens (fuck that was hard to write out). She will remain on life support until such time. 

    We confirmed with the funeral home that dad, before passing, did ensure mom had a funeral plan and plot. Due to this unexpected life changing event, we are needing funds to help cover the remaining memorial/funeral expenses and help with this large hole in our family. Anything helps. We are grateful and appreciate any support during this tough time. Thank you. 

  Dr. Joe