Arizona Volleyball Player Rebuilding After Leg Amputation

Delilah Mendez was at volleyball practice at Casa Grande Union High School when she struggled to breathe, became dizzy and collapsed. Her mother, Rosie Mendez, said she initially thought the 14-year-old might be dehydrated, until she learned her daughter had no pulse.

Mendez received care at a nearby medical center before being airlifted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, where she was put on a heart and lung machine. Doctors found an underlying heart condition and performed urgent surgery. Blood clots and circulation problems followed, and surgeons removed the lower portion of her left leg.

After two months in the hospital, Mendez is home, spending time with her younger brothers and playing video games. She is walking with crutches and working to get stronger. Her mother said Mendez is trying to stay positive, though accepting help may be difficult for someone who likes to do things independently.

Friends, family and teammates have supported her during recovery. Her volleyball team sent cards, and her best friend has visited. Her classmates created posters and T-shirts to collect funds for the family’s medical bills, and a GoFundMe has also been set up.

Mendez had hoped to earn a college volleyball scholarship. She now wants to learn to walk with a prosthetic and return to the court. Her mother said she believes her daughter will play again.