– September 1 Community Event Will Help Raise Money for Local Mom Who Recently Became a Quadrilateral Amputee and Highlight National Sepsis Awareness Month –
The Atlanta community is coming together on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016, to throw a “Party with a Purpose:” a college football kickoff party benefiting the Elizabeth Zweigel Health Trust. The event, which will be held at Sweetwater Brewing Company, will help raise money to support the medical expenses of Elizabeth Zweigel, a Brookhaven resident and mother of two young children who recently lost all four limbs due to an unexpected illness.
“BBQ, Booze & Buffalo Dip” honors Elizabeth’s devotion to the Georgia Bulldogs and her annual tradition of hosting a college football kickoff party. The event is open to the public, and community members can purchase event tickets for $75 in advance at http://fundraiserforliz.eventbrite.com or onsite at the event for $85.
Party starts at 7pm – come and enjoy a tailgate full of food, drinks, a live band, raffles, auction and more! Tickets will include Liz’s famous buffalo dip, a huge spread of bbq food, six tasting tickets, unlimited wine, signature drink, souvenir glass, and an event koozie. All money raised will go directly to her trust.
Elizabeth’s Story
On March 20, 2016, Elizabeth suddenly came down with sepsis, which quickly led to septic shock and multiple organ failure. Her illness began with flu-like symptoms and became life threatening in less than 36 hours. Elizabeth spent over five weeks in the hospital and is currently undergoing recovery at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
Because of the sepsis, Elizabeth’s body cut off blood flow to her extremities in an attempt to preserve her vital organs. Exacerbating the lack of blood flow, the life support drugs necessary to keep Elizabeth alive also suppressed circulation to her extremities. As a result, Elizabeth lost her right hand and her left arm at her elbow. About a month later, Elizabeth had bilateral amputations on her legs (each four inches below the knee).
As a result of Elizabeth’s quadrilateral amputations, her family will face many upcoming challenges and expenses, including major renovations to their home to accommodate her disability, multiple prosthetics, childcare, and rehabilitation services.
Although Elizabeth, her husband Scott, and her family know they have a long, hard road ahead of them to get to a “new normal,” they are moving forward in strength and positivity, with the help of their family, friends and community. To purchase tickets to Party with a Purpose or donate to help support Elizabeth and her family, visit http://fundraiserforliz.eventbrite.com.
