GLENDALE, Arizona — A young girl in Glendale, Arizona, has endured a series of amputations after being struck by a severe bacterial infection. Victoria Pasten-Morales, a second-grade student, has undergone eight surgeries within a two-week period. Her family is now seeking support as they navigate this unexpected medical crisis.
The sudden onset of this illness has left Victoria’s parents, Obdulia Morales and Victor Pasten, bewildered. They recount how their daughter’s symptoms began with fever and vomiting in late February, and within hours, her lips and hands turned blue. Concerned for her well-being, they immediately rushed her to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, where she was diagnosed with Group A Streptococcus.
The infection has since led to the amputation of both of Victoria’s feet and her right hand. Her left hand remains in the recovery process. Additionally, her kidneys have been affected, requiring her to be on a ventilator. Despite these challenges, Victoria has found a way to communicate with her school staff through gestures like blowing kisses and nodding her head.
With the medical crisis came unexpected financial strain for the family. To assist with the mounting expenses, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up.
Victoria’s resilience throughout this frightening experience has earned her the admiration of her mother, who described her as a “warrior.” Moving forward, the family faces the difficult task of understanding how Victoria contracted such a severe infection, as even the doctors find it perplexing.
Group A Streptococcus bacteria can cause a range of infections, from mild to severe, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the exact source of Victoria’s infection remains unknown.