Tara Redepenning
ASMP Advocate

In February of 2018, our then 2-year-old daughter Grace was rushed by ambulance to the hospital. What was first believed to be the flu quickly revealed itself to be something far more serious. Her illness rapidly progressed into bacterial meningitis and septic shock, putting her life in immediate danger.  

That morning, we watched medical teams take lifesaving measures as they worked to stabilize her. Grace spent 21 days hospitalized, including seven days in a medically induced coma in the ICU, before transitioning to a rehabilitation hospital. She survived, but not without lasting consequences. Due to necrosis caused by sepsis, Grace lost six fingertips and the tip of one toe. 

Although Grace made what many call a miraculous recovery, the impact of meningitis did not end when she left the hospital. Eight years later, we are still living with its effects. Because of her experiences and frequent hospitalizations, Grace struggles with poor sleep and anxiety, reminders that meningitis leaves lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars long after the acute illness passes. 

During those first terrifying hours and days, I was desperate for hope, just to hear that my child might survive. While we were fortunate to have access to high-quality care, we also know that no family should have to rely on geography or luck when facing a life-threatening disease. 

Our family’s experience is why I advocate for meningitis prevention and strong vaccine policies. No child should endure what Grace has, and no family should learn about the dangers of meningitis only after it has already changed their lives forever.