On December 6, 2008, Chicago Police Sergeant Gina Dwyer-Meliska suffered cardiac arrest as a result of a condition called Apical Ballooning Syndrome (ABS). Although she was fortunate to receive CPR moments after she collapsed, Gina was without oxygen for approximately 1-3 minutes during this experience.

Gina's heart has been stabilized and she is able to breathe on her own. However, our biggest concern continues to be any neurological damage that may have occurred due to her loss of oxygen. Gina spent 17 days in ICU and is now in a long-term acute care facility where she will receive care, aggressive therapy and evaluation from a team of neurologists.

Gina and her family are devout Catholics who believe in the power of prayer. Whatever your faith, they ask that you please offer your prayers and positive thoughts to Gina, her family and her doctors during this time of need.