Critical Care

When Kelly Jerrom went to her family doctor for what she thought were flu symptoms, she never imagined that several days later she would be in a medically induced coma and on life support. But the 38-year-old mother of four-year-old twin girls spent four weeks in the intensive care unit at Grand View Health for a bacterial infection that rapidly turned into severe septic shock, a life-threatening condition. When a CAT scan revealed brain swelling, she was flown to a Philadelphia hospital where she stayed for two more weeks.

After a week of physical therapy, she finally returned home following a seven-week long emotional roller coaster ride. “As soon as we thought she was recovering, her vitals plummeted and we were back against the edge of the cliff,” said Peter, Kelly’s husband. “Through it all, though, the staff at Grand View went above and beyond. Doctors and nurses who weren’t even handling Kelly’s case offered to help. So many little things became a collective big thing.”

Kelly’s care was orchestrated by a caring multidisciplinary team that met daily. “Kelly wasn’t just room 10 to us,” said Evan Lenkowsky, DO, Grand View critical care medicine specialist. “The entire team did a fantastic job. We may be a small hospital, but we have processes in place to provide the highest level care, even for the sickest of the sick.” Now on her way to a full recovery Kelly says, “I say a silent thank you to Grand View every day for saving my life.”