Deciding to remove a loved one from life support can be one of the most painful decisions a person ever confronts, especially when the prognosis is grim. Ryan Finley faced this daunting reality when his wife, Jill, fell into a coma. Discovering Jill unconscious and unresponsive, Ryan acted swiftly, performing CPR and praying for her recovery while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
Clinging to Hope
Despite the slim chances of a positive outcome, Ryan refused to give up. Jill’s heart was weak, and her breathing was shallow, but paramedics arrived in time to resuscitate her. She was rushed to the Oklahoma Heart Hospital, where she was treated with a specialist cooling suit designed to protect her brain from further damage due to oxygen deprivation. Her condition left her in an unconscious state, and despite a grim prognosis from the medical staff, Ryan held onto hope, praying for a miracle.
The Agonizing Decision
As days passed with no signs of improvement, Ryan was asked to consider allowing the doctors to withdraw Jill’s life support. In his diary, he described the torment of making such a heartbreaking decision, weighing Jill’s desires against the prolongation of her suffering. Ultimately, he decided to let her go, believing it was what she would have wanted.
A Miraculous Turn
The family gathered to say their final goodbyes as the life support machine was turned off. Doctors advised them that Jill might not die immediately, experiencing what is known as the “final rally.” During this time, Jill began murmuring and expressing her wish to visit her favorite Mexican restaurants, Ted’s or Melting Pot. She even asked her husband to drive her away, filling Ryan with renewed hope. Miraculously, Jill survived. She underwent heart surgery and a lengthy recovery, eventually breathing independently.
Recovery and Challenges
Although Jill had no recollection of her coma period, she faced challenges with her short-term memory and pronouncing certain words. Her recovery was a testament to cutting-edge medical technology and the unwavering support of her family. Despite these obstacles, Jill’s fortitude gave her a second chance at life, deepening her appreciation for each day.
Overcoming COVID-19
Jill’s resilience was further tested when she contracted the coronavirus. After being on a ventilator for an extended period, she gradually healed, despite losing her husband and sister to the virus. The 65-year-old grandmother’s overall health was satisfactory, and she embraced her second chance at life with gratitude.
Cherishing Every Moment
Jill and her daughter, who had been by her side throughout the ordeal, now cherish every moment together. Jill’s experiences have given her a new perspective on life. Having seen loved ones succumb to illness, she no longer takes anything for granted, treasuring the time spent with her family more than ever before.
