Brave mum of seven winning biggest fight of her life
After losing her limbs as a result of sudden pneumonia complications, a previously healthy mum of seven has become a source of inspiration to staff and patients across Westmead Hospital.
In May this year, doctors amputated Tamara Impellizzeri’s legs and left hand, to save her life.
Her pneumonia complications had resulted in a severe sepsis infection, which is fatal in fifty per cent of cases.
Tamara will also have her right hand amputated in the coming weeks.
“Since May, I’ve spent every day inside hospital,” Tamara said.
“Before this, I had good health. I was happy, running around and I didn’t stop. Nothing could stop me.
“Now, I’m learning to walk again.”
In an emotional interview with high profile journalist Lisa Wilkinson on Channel Ten’s The Project, Tamara praised the support of her loving family.
“I have seven beautiful and supportive kids, aged 19 to five-year-old twins,” Tamara said.
“My husband has also stuck by me. I know he’s always had my back, but never like this.
“I have to be strong for my family.”
Tamara hopes to be discharged from hospital for the first time on Christmas day. If not, the hospital will invite Tamara’s family to celebrate Christmas in her ward.
Over the past six months, Tamara has inspired several people across Westmead Hospital with her positivity and strength.
She has become a mentor to other patients facing amputations.
Surgeon Dr Tom Daly said Tamara was an inspiration.
“Tamara came to accept her situation very quickly and understood the difficulty she was going to have because of the sickness she had.
“She just got on with it.
“I wish Tamara and her family all the very best.”
On The Project, Lisa Wilkinson asked Tamara if she ever questioned why the severe illness happened to her.
“Why not me? If I can do this, anyone can do it,” Tamara said.
“The man upstairs said ‘you haven’t had enough challenges yet, so get working – you need something to do.'”
Tamara’s family has set up a GoFundMe account to support alterations to her home that will help her move around once she is discharged from hospital. To donate, visit https://au.gofundme.com/tamara-impellizzeri
