Carla’s Story

Carla never imagined that a simple visit to her grandmother’s care home would change her life forever. At that time, she was 13 weeks pregnant, and her daughter Kennedy was just four years old. She was looking forward to the new chapter ahead—a growing family, cherished moments with loved ones, and the promise of a bright future.

That day, as she sat by her grandmother’s side, a strange sensation crept up her arm. At first, it was just a tingle, then pain, and soon after, everything started to blur. Words tangled in her mouth; her tongue felt heavy. When she tried to stand, her legs simply wouldn’t obey. Panic set in as Carla realized that something was terribly wrong.

The care home staff acted quickly, calling an ambulance as her symptoms escalated. By the time the paramedics arrived, her body was paralyzed, and she could barely form words. A deep vein clot had traveled through a small, undetected hole in her heart—a silent defect that had gone unnoticed until now. Carla was having a stroke.

In the hospital, every minute mattered. The medical team hesitated as they weighed their options. Carla’s condition was delicate, and the decision to administer clot-busting drugs was not taken lightly. After careful consultation, Dr. Odulio authorized the treatment that would ultimately save her life. Carla is forever grateful to the ER staff at UHNBC for the care and compassion she received during the scariest moments of her life.

However, the journey was far from over. Carla required specialized care that was only available in Vancouver—a city eight hours away from home and everything familiar. In and out of consciousness, she found herself being medivac’d to VGH with nothing—no wallet, no phone, and no way to reach home. The bustling hospital, filled with staff and other patients, felt isolating as Carla lay in a bed, hooked up to machines, fighting to regain control over her body.

Her husband, Roger, and her sister, Tanya, flew down to Vancouver the very next morning. Their presence brought immediate relief to poor Carla who was terrified and alone, trying to understand what was happening and praying for the safety of their unborn baby.

When Carla was finally discharged, there was lingering uncertainty about the next steps. Yet, this time, she wasn’t left alone. With Roger by her side, she managed the journey back home, a reunion filled with hope, gratitude, and the promise of healing.

Carla’s recovery continued through follow-up appointments with multiple specialists and frequent travel for additional care. Some consultations were handled through zoom calls, though many challenges still loomed large. Every step of the way, she was reminded of the fragility of life and the profound impact that a single, unexpected moment can have.

In the end, Carla remains deeply grateful, not only for the life-saving treatment and the compassionate care from Dr. Odulio and the team of specialists, but also for the unwavering support of her husband, Roger, her sister, Tanya, and her family and friends.

Carla’s unborn daughter at the time, is now a beautiful, curly haired, six-year-old who is strong and a fighter just like her mom!