Emma Krueger

12/26/18

Emma’s illness began on December 8 with symptoms that appeared to just be that of a common stomach bug. Symptoms continued to worsen leading to a visit with her primary care physician on Monday, December 10.  While waiting for lab results to come back, her physician called and suggested we take her to the ER for further testing as he was clearly concerned. After evaluation in ThedaClark ER, she was admitted to Children’s Hospital of the Fox Valley.  Her lab results came back the morning of December 11 showing positive results for an infection from E. coli O157:H7, a specific strain that can lead to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) which can have dangerous complications. Upon diagnosis, they immediately decided she would be transported by ambulance to Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee.

Since arriving in Milwaukee, she’s had numerous complications including renal failure, secondary infection, cardiac arrest, and neurological problems including seizures and stroke.  Some of this is the result of the HUS she is battling. On Christmas night, she was able to be taken off of the ECMO machine that was supporting her heart and lungs.  This is a HUGE step toward her recovery, but she still has many serious issues to overcome.

We are so grateful for the wonderful, compassionate care she is receiving from all of the doctors and nursing staff here at Children’s Hospital.  Multiple specialists are working collaboratively on her case and are determined to do everything they can to help Emma overcome this terrible illness.