A 14-year-old Arizona girl who collapsed during volleyball practice is home after two months in the hospital, determined to return to the sport she loves despite losing part of her left leg.
Delilah Mendez, a freshman at Casa Grande Union High School, was practicing about two months ago when she suddenly struggled to breathe and became dizzy. Her mother, Rosie, initially thought dehydration might explain what happened. Then she learned her daughter had no pulse.
Delilah was taken to a local hospital before being flown to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Doctors discovered an underlying heart condition that required immediate surgery, AZFamily reported. She was placed on a machine to support her heart and lungs, but complications involving blood clots and poor circulation ultimately led doctors to amputate the lower portion of her left leg.
For Rosie, explaining the amputation to her daughter was especially difficult. But Delilah’s response revealed a strength that surprised even her mother.
“She is a fighter. She went through a lot,” Rosie told AZFamily.
Now home and using crutches, Delilah is working toward walking with a prosthetic. The adjustment has been particularly challenging for a teenager accustomed to doing things herself.
“She’s a very independent person. She always likes to do everything on her own,” her mother said.
Before the medical emergency, Delilah dreamed of earning a college volleyball scholarship. Returning to the court remains her goal, even as she focuses on rebuilding her strength.
Her teammates have sent cards, her best friend has visited, and classmates have made signs and T-shirts to help raise money. A family fundraiser is also helping with expenses as her recovery continues.
Between video games and time with her younger brothers, Delilah is getting back to some familiar routines. She knows the next steps will take work, but she is ready to try.
“I want to get through this and learn how to walk again, get a prosthetic and do all the things I used to do,” she said.
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