A Massachusetts man is currently recovering after a harrowing medical crisis that began just hours after attending his brother’s wedding in Mumbai, India. Andrew Wasil, 39, served as best man at the celebratory event in February, but shortly thereafter he fell critically ill, succumbing to a dangerous strep infection that necessitated life-saving amputations.
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Andrew’s mother, Suzanne Wasil, recounted the alarming turn of events that unfolded within just a day. “Within 24 hours he went from having fun at the wedding to being on a ventilator,” she told WHDH. The day following the wedding festivities, Andrew reported a feeling akin to having pulled a muscle, accompanied by difficulty breathing. This prompted his family to take him to the emergency room, where medical staff quickly realised the gravity of his condition. “He’s not getting much oxygen, his pulse is very low, his heart’s not pumping well. We need to put him on a ventilator,” the doctors said.
Following his admission to the hospital, Andrew was diagnosed with a severe strep infection that led to septic shock. Details shared on a GoFundMe page, established by his sister Erica Vinton, indicated that Andrew’s health took a rapid downturn as multiple organs struggled to recover due to insufficient oxygen levels. “The strep virus went into his lungs. When they performed blood tests, they also found traces of the common cold and the flu,” stated Suzanne.
As his situation continued to deteriorate, Andrew faced a critical decision regarding surgery. To save his life, doctors had to amputate both of his legs above the knees. Months later, although he is reported to be medically stable, he has not yet regained full consciousness. “He has been showing encouraging signs and is fighting hard,” Erica remarked, illustrating the family’s hope for his recovery.
Andrew’s urgent need to return to Boston for continued medical treatment has been a priority for his family and supporters. Having established a GoFundMe campaign to help facilitate his medical air ambulance, the fundraising effort has gained significant traction, enabling him to schedule his transport back to the United States on April 19. As recent updates confirmed, the return journey is imminent, with his mother expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of support. “That just touches our family. We have no words except thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” Suzanne said.
The emotional toll of this experience has not been lost on Andrew’s family, particularly his children, who are eagerly anticipating their uncle’s return. “His nieces and nephew love him to pieces, saying, ‘Uncle Andy, Uncle Andy!’ They can’t wait to see Uncle Andy,” Suzanne shared, highlighting the strong family bond that remains intact despite the challenges.
Erica communicated her appreciation in a heartfelt update on the fundraising platform, stating, “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for all your compassionate love and support.” She expressed that Andrew’s resilience has united their community in an unprecedented way, as people rally around the family during this trying time.
As the Wasil family prepares for Andrew’s homecoming, the focus remains on his recovery journey and the ongoing need for medical care. The family, buoyed by the community’s support, holds on to hope for a brighter future. With Andrew’s return to Boston on the horizon, his loved ones remain committed to advocating for his health and well-being in the months ahead.