Trinity Shores thought she had a bad cold when she developed a fever as a healthy teenager. Within days, her condition rapidly worsened. She collapsed at home and was rushed to hospital, where doctors soon feared she would not survive.
She was diagnosed with severe flu complications that led to pneumonia and sepsis. Her lungs filled with fluid, her organs began to fail, and doctors placed her in a medically induced coma. Her family was told her chance of survival was almost zero. She remained in a coma for two months while life-support machines kept her alive.
When she finally woke up, she was extremely weak and unable to walk or speak. Her muscles had wasted away, and she required months of intensive rehabilitation. It took eight months before she could return to school and begin rebuilding everyday life.
Although she survived, the flu caused permanent damage. Shores now lives with chronic lung problems that affect her breathing and stamina. She needs ongoing treatment and becomes short of breath easily, even during simple activities.
Now an adult, Shores shares her experience as a warning. She says flu symptoms should never be dismissed, even in young and active people. Her story shows how quickly the virus can become life-threatening and why early medical care and prevention are essential.
