The family of Commissioner Cathy Coleman has released a new update on her condition following a recent series of major procedures. While Coleman remains in critical condition, her care team has made significant progress addressing the devastating injuries caused by the car crash that left her hospitalized weeks ago.
According to her granddaughter, a tracheostomy performed yesterday went well, allowing for improved airway management. In addition, doctors completed a debridement of her right arm and conducted a colonoscopy, which revealed no immediate cause for concern.
Blunt Force Trauma Identified as Cause of Bowel Crisis
A major concern has been the severe complications with Coleman’s bowels. Following a deep review of her case, physicians determined that the bowel ischemia (lack of blood flow) and subsequent tissue death stemmed from blunt force trauma and hypotension during the car crash. These complications ultimately led to her septic condition.
“Age, multiple surgeries, and medications only added to the cause,” her granddaughter shared.
During yesterday’s surgery, doctors discovered infected mesh near her ileostomy, which they removed and replaced. A small hole was also found near the site, but it was surrounded by healthy tissue and successfully stitched closed. Though her white blood cell count remains high, doctors expect it to improve now that the infection source has been addressed. Thankfully, no additional bowel tissue needed to be removed.
What Comes Next: A Waiting Game
With major procedures behind her, the medical team has decided on a new course: no more surgeries unless absolutely necessary. The focus now is on letting her body rest and attempt to heal.
“She’s still showing no signs of healing—but she’s been through so much,” her granddaughter wrote. “The plan is to give her body 2–3 weeks to show even the slightest bit of improvement. If there’s none, we’ll have to reevaluate what she would want regarding her quality of life.”
For now, doctors will slowly increase IV nutrition and begin reintroducing tube feedings to give her body the resources it needs to recover. Coleman is being kept sedated for rest and recovery but will begin waking attempts in the coming days.
Signs of Hope Amid the Struggle
Earlier this week, the family reported several encouraging developments: slight head movement, attempts to open her eyes on command, improved kidney function, and the absence of neurological concerns. These signs have lifted spirits, even as the medical road ahead remains uncertain.
During last Thursday’s Scioto County Commissioners meeting, fellow commissioners Bryan Davis and Scottie Powell again urged the public to keep Coleman in their thoughts.
“She’s a fighter,” Davis said. “And we know she’s not done yet.”
Still in the Fight
Commissioner Cathy Coleman, 71, was critically injured in a violent crash in Kentucky while on an errand with her beloved dog, Packer—who tragically did not survive. Since then, Coleman has undergone numerous surgeries to treat a shattered femur, broken ribs, a punctured lung, and multiple internal complications.
