BREAKING: A team of doctors in St. Petersburg, Florida, has successfully amputated a 174-pound leg from Jasmine Ramirez, a teenage girl battling a rare medical condition. The urgent 17-hour surgery took place at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, marking a significant turning point in Jasmine’s life as she recovers from this life-saving procedure.
This unprecedented surgery was necessitated by a lymphomatous tumor that caused Jasmine’s left leg to grow disproportionately larger than her right leg since she was just two years old. Her family revealed that the condition was so rare it lacked a formal name. “Her legs were pretty normal up until she turned around two years old,” said Anastashia Carrasquillo, Jasmine’s older sister. “My parents started realizing that her left leg was kind of growing a bit more larger than the other.”
As Jasmine’s condition deteriorated, an infection threatened her life. Her father, Manuel Ramirez, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “My dad always told Jasmine if it came down to your life or your leg, we would choose your life.” The family faced a harrowing wait during the lengthy procedure, anxious for news on Jasmine’s fate. “Thank God that it went well,” Carrasquillo added, reflecting on the family’s emotional turmoil.
The challenges of living with the tumor were significant. Jasmine’s family had to modify her clothing and footwear due to the extreme size difference between her legs. “We had to tailor and alter clothes for her because obviously her one leg is about five times smaller than the other one,” Carrasquillo explained. This experience has undoubtedly taken a toll on Jasmine, who is now “coming to terms” with the reality of having only one leg.
The family expressed immense gratitude for the support they received throughout this ordeal. They hope Jasmine’s story will inspire others, showcasing her strength and courage in the face of adversity. “We just want people to know how strong Jasmine is and how courageous and how kind she is,” Carrasquillo said. “She’s a sweet girl… she didn’t deserve this. No kid ever deserves this, but she has challenges and she has pushed through.”
As Jasmine embarks on her recovery journey, her family aims to raise awareness about her rare condition and the challenges they faced. This remarkable story of resilience and bravery highlights the profound impact of medical advancements and the unwavering support of loved ones.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jasmine’s recovery and the ongoing conversation surrounding her rare medical condition.
