A recent story has come to light that highlights the importance of seeking medical attention as soon as possible.
Michael Kohlhof, a man from Houston, Texas underwent a double amputation after he was bitten by a flea.
His partner Alishpa Masood and mother J’Lenne Hardaway said that if they had waited any longer, they would have lost him.
Michael had been feeling unwell in Houston but went to San Antonio last month to help his mom after she underwent surgery.
While he was there, he got so sick that he could not get out of bed and eventually ended up in the emergency room.
Doctors told him he had typhus which can only be caused by a flea bite and started treatment immediately.
After spending a month in the hospital, Michael had both hands and parts of his feet and toes amputated in order to save his life.
The family believes that getting medical attention sooner could have made a big difference for Michael, however due to financial difficulties, they were hesitant about going straight away as Michael did not have insurance coverage at the time.
The type of flea found on Michael has only been known to be found in California or Texas so it’s likely he got bit while at home with indoor pets such as cats or dogs.
Although it may seem unlikely that something like this could happen inside one’s own home, it serves as an important reminder that illnesses should always be taken seriously regardless of how mild they may appear at first glance.
Despite having gone through such an ordeal, Masood said Kohlhof still remains positive throughout it all which she is grateful for given just how difficult things are right now for them all.
The entire family is left trying to figure out what comes next but regardless – remain hopeful about what lies ahead down the road for Kohlhof’s recovery journey.
A GoFundMe account has also been set up by friends and family members in order to help support him financially along this difficult path.
