Life changed in an instant for Hilda Garay. At 63 years old, she never imagined that refusing insulin and dialysis would lead to the fight of her life.
“I fell into a diabetic coma because I didn’t want to take insulin or go to dialysis,” she said. “I went into diabetic shock and was hospitalized for about four or five months. My life came to a complete stop—out of nowhere.”
Hilda was first admitted to Adventist Health White Memorial, where doctors sent her to her first dialysis appointment. She didn’t even have time to process what was happening before things took a turn for the worse.
“Next thing you know, I was intubated and on a ventilator because of COVID-19,” she said.
For six months, she was isolated, unable to see her daughters. What started as a health scare became a battle for survival. The time she lost, the uncertainty of not knowing if she would make it—she never thought this would be her reality. After months in the hospital, Hilda was finally able to complete her care under Dr. Moe Aung at Echo Park. Since then, he has closely monitored her every step of the way, making sure she gets the care she needs.
“I do as Dr. Aung says now,” she said. “I will never go against his word again.”
She knows that every decision matters. Today, she lives with a permanent oxygen tank, a daily reminder of the journey she has been through and the choices that brought her here.
Hilda hopes that by sharing her experience, she can reach others who are struggling with their health. She wants people to understand that ignoring treatment can have serious consequences—and sometimes, there is no going back.
“I wish anyone out there struggling will make a change before it’s too late,” she said.
Her journey is a reminder of how fragile life can be—but also of the strength it takes to fight back. And now, with Dr. Aung’s guidance and a new outlook, she is determined to live the best life she can.
Story Seeker: Health Advocate Karina Flores for Echo Park