04/06/2026
In the face of a health emergency, Stevie Bingham shares her story of caregiver burnout, alcohol abuse and her appreciation for the team at Mercy Health — Springfield.
“I was the primary caregiver for a family member and was experiencing caregiver burnout and coping in the most negative way, by drinking heavily,” Stevie says.
That’s when Stevie’s partner noticed her breathing was off and rushed her to the Mercy Health — Dayton Springfield Emergency Center. Stevie was a newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic on medications, but was not able to maintain a regular blood sugar because of her alcohol abuse.
“I actually walked right in, thinking nothing was really that bad,” she shares. “But my blood sugar was at 802, and my blood pH was at 5.7. I was airlifted to Mercy Health — Springfield Regional Medical Center's intensive care unit.”
At the hospital, Stevie was intubated and in a coma for a fear-filled six days.
“My partner then let them know that I was in fact a heavy drinker,” Stevie says. “Immediately, they changed the medications for alcohol withdrawal, and I woke up and was able to breathe on my own just a few days later.”
Today, Stevie is sober and grateful for the care team at Mercy Health — Springfield.
“Addiction to alcohol is such a cunning and baffling thing,” she says. “I have a chance at life, and I am extremely grateful for the work of all the fast-acting nurses, techs and doctors who saved my life.”
"I do want to recognize one ICU nurse in particular," Stevie adds, "Nurse Emily gave me my first drink of water when I came off the vent and told me, 'It's like Christmas morning, huh?' Those words will never leave me. She even came to visit me when they moved me to the step-down unit. She stayed in contact with my partner every day that I was on the vent and made sure my care was the best. Though I may have just been another patient, she really made a huge difference in my life and without her care, I wouldn't be here today."
Has the compassionate care you or a loved one received at Mercy Health made a lasting impact on your life? Visit the link in the comments to share your story with us.
