Florida Mom Nearly Dies, Faces Grueling Recovery After Contracting Flesh-Eating Bacteria
GAINESVILLE, FL – Genevieve Gallagher, a 49-year-old Florida woman, is undergoing intensive treatment at UF Health Shands Hospital after contracting Vibrio vulnificus, a rare but potentially deadly flesh-eating bacteria, during a swim in Florida waters. gallagher nearly lost her leg and her life, and is now facing a long and arduous recovery.
Gallagher was intubated and required immediate medical attention after contracting the infection. Doctors initially warned her family she could lose her leg, or even succumb to the illness. “They were finally able to get me stable enough to wake me up. Sacred Heart saved my leg, thank God,” Gallagher said.
The infection has necessitated multiple surgeries, including one where muscle was taken from her back and grafted onto exposed bone in her leg – a procedure that ultimately failed due to blood clots, requiring another surgery. Gallagher described the current state of her leg as “deformed” and the pain as “unbelievable,” comparing it to “somebody took gasoline, poured it on my leg, and lit my leg on fire.”
The ordeal has taken a significant toll on Gallagher and her family. Her husband travels to Gainesville every weekend to support her, as she struggles with the mental and emotional impact of the experience.”I’ve been strong through it all, but it’s been a lot mentally, emotionally and physically,” she stated.
Vibrio vulnificus bacteria naturally occur in warm seawater environments, according to the Florida Department of Health. While infections are rare, the Florida department of Health warns individuals not to enter the water if they have any open cuts or scrapes.
As of july 17, 2025, Florida has reported 23 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection, resulting in five deaths. In 2024, there were 82 reported cases statewide.
gallagher is expected to remain hospitalized for another two to three weeks to continue her treatment and recovery.
