Arizona Toddler’s Foot Turns Black After Snakebite; Doctors Administer Life-Saving Antivenom
A 15-month-old Arizona girl, Cara, was bitten twice by a diamondback rattlesnake and has not smiled since. She received 30 vials of antivenom and may need more, as her family fears long-term damage.
Cara was bitten while walking near her home. Her mother, Jacquelyn Reed, rushed her to a local ER, but antivenom was delayed over an hour. Cara’s foot began to turn black, and she was eventually airlifted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Cara was intubated due to breathing problems but was successfully extubated after several days. Her vocal cords were swollen almost shut, requiring steroids, respiratory treatments, and oxygen-helium therapy. She showed steady improvement and started feeding through a tube.
Cara is alert, making eye contact, and showing signs of recovery, but doctors warn her injuries are severe and may affect her foot’s function long-term. Surgery might be necessary.
The family expressed gratitude for the support and donations raised to help Cara. Jacquelyn hopes Cara will fully recover and return to her happy, adorable s
