Albina Lebzak

Albina Lebzak is a young, healthy individual from Washington state. She enjoys judo, fishing, dirt biking, and camping.

Vacationing in North Dakota, Albina suddenly found herself very sick. She experienced double vision, difficulty swallowing and speaking, shortness of breath, and weakness in her arms and legs. Albina sought medical attention, and tests revealed something entirely unexpected.

Albina was diagnosed with botulism, a rare but serious illness. It occurs when a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum attacks the body’s nerves. Albina believes canned soup the be the source of the bacteria.

Unfortunately, Albina’s health declined rapidly. She experienced respiratory failure, requiring placement on a ventilator to breathe. Facing a difficult road ahead, Albina transferred to Vibra Hospital of Fargo to wean her off the ventilator and begin her recovery.

Albina arrived still on the ventilator and unable to eat any food. She also required assistance to walk short distances and complete self-care activities. The interdisciplinary care team at Vibra put together an individualized plan of care to get Albina back home safely.

Before long, Albina made significant progress in her recovery. She weaned off the ventilator and no longer requires supplemental oxygen. Albina can now enjoy soft foods, walk over 700 feet, and complete her self-care activities. A few times during her stay, Albina was able to go outside and practice car transfers.

Having completed her stay at Vibra Hospital of Fargo, Albina discharged home. There, she will continue working with outpatient therapy to gain strength and endurance.

Albina, we are so proud of your accomplishments and glad you achieved your goal of returning home after a longer-than-expected vacation. We wish you the best!