Overview
- Trinity Peterson-Mayes, 24, is recovering in a Phoenix rehab facility and expects to be released as early as Wednesday after contracting botulism from home-fermented swordfish.
- She suffered rapid paralysis and respiratory failure, was transferred to St. Joseph’s Medical Center and the Barrow Neurological Institute, and required intubation and ventilatory support.
- An antitoxin was rushed from out of state, halting the progression of the toxin as she began regaining speech and mobility.
- Two friends who sampled the same fish were also diagnosed, were briefly hospitalized, and are recuperating at home.
- Experts note the U.S. sees only about two dozen foodborne cases each year, and a GoFundMe started by her mother has raised more than $9,700 toward her recovery.