info updated 4-24-12

For days, Amanda had stomach pains that ranged from tolerable to dibilatating. She stuck to the motto "the show must go on" and continued to work at her day job. Since the doctors gave her medicine, told her she wasn't contagious, and gave her the "hang in there for 48 hours" speech, she felt good about her recovery. Repeating the motto, Amanda came to a small portion of our rehearsals... feeling terrible about missing most of them, but knowing that she wasn't getting any better.

Meanwhile, a "stomach flu" was actually an appendix ready to burst. After fighting through the pain and telling herself she would get better, Amanda was forced to go back to the doctor on Friday morning, April 13.  She was admitted to the hospital but was still told that it was a really bad stomach flu that had created a gastric ileus. Some meds and a night in the hospital would get her all fixed up.

Over 24 hours after arriving in the hospital, a ct scan was ordered and they found the true cause. Her appendix had ruptured THREE DAYS earlier and was blocking her colon and intestines.  Thankfully, they caught it in time to do emergency surgery (removing her appendix and the infected portions of her intestines and colon).  We are so grateful that she is alive.

Today, she is still resting at home. It will be a while before she can get back to work or even be on her feet for more than a few minutes. Hopefully, solid foods will be easier for her soon so she can gain her strength and energy.

Why does Amanda need our help? She works an hourly wage day job, does not have health insurance, and her parents live in another country.  At a time when family can help you through the pain, Amanda has been depending on friends.  So, we need to help.

Stay updated through her CaringBridge here

MAKE A DONATION TO HELP

Come see Auntie Mame and donate cash or check to Amanda Pickard into our buckets after the show.
OR
Write a check to Amanda Pickard and mail to: OnStage Atlanta, 2597 North Decatur Rd., Atlanta, GA 30033
OR

Questions?  Email amandapickardmds@gmail.com OR visit her CaringBridge here

MAKE A DONATION TO PROCESS THEATRE COMPANY

Process Theatre
4311 Morgan Place Ct. NE
Atlanta, GA 30324

THANKS!!!