Title: California Mom Raises Over $110,000 After Losing Limbs Due to Contaminated Fish
By Megan Palin
Published Sep. 21, 2023, 7:01 a.m. ET
Over $110,000 has been raised for Laura Barajas, a California mom who had to have all her limbs amputated after consuming bad tilapia contaminated with a flesh-eating bacteria. A harrowing image of Barajas in her hospital bed has emerged, capturing the severity of her condition.
Barajas, 40, purchased the contaminated fish from a local market in July. Shortly after eating it, she fell ill and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors diagnosed her with the aggressive bacteria Vibrio vulnificus, commonly found in undercooked seafood. In a bid to save her life, Barajas underwent a life-saving surgery this week to have all four of her limbs removed.
A GoFundMe page was set up by her friend, Anna Messina, to support Barajas and her family during this challenging time. The online fundraiser gained momentum within days and has surpassed $110,000 in donations as of Wednesday. Messina emphasized the urgent need for financial assistance as Barajas’ partner, Jose Valdez, has exhausted his paid time off, and the Family Disability program provides only 60% of his normal income. The mounting hospital bills and significant changes to their lives due to Barajas’ condition have put immense pressure on the family.
Vibrio vulnificus infection can be life-threatening, often requiring amputations and leading to death within days of contracting the bacteria. It primarily affects individuals with weak immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 150 to 200 cases of Vibrio vulnificus each year, with a majority of patients requiring intensive care or limb amputations. Roughly 1 in 5 people infected with this bacteria die as a result.
Barajas, originally from Mexico’s Guanajuato City, lives with her partner Valdez and his two children in San Jose, California. The traumatic experience has brought attention to the dangers of consuming undercooked seafood and the need for awareness about Vibrio vulnificus.
The Post has reached out to the Barajas family for comment on their experience. As the donations continue to pour in, the community’s support provides hope and assistance in navigating the long road to recovery for the Barajas family.
[Note: The above article is a fictional representation and does not reflect any real-life events or individuals.]