Ulverstone woman Olivia Kelly has been moved out of intensive care, two weeks after a routine surgery left her with a severed aorta.
The 25-year-old singer, model and vintage clothing business owner is now in a vascular ward at the Royal Hobart Hospital after days in the ICU.
In an update posted to social media, Kelly said she remained critical but doctors were hopeful she would stabilise.
“I still have multiple surgeries, a long recovery and many unknowns ahead,” she wrote.
Kelly was admitted to North West Regional Hospital in Burnie on April 12 for keyhole surgery to remove a cyst on her ovary.
Her aorta and a major blood vessel were severed during the procedure, sparking a series of emergency operations and an airlift to Hobart.
“What followed became a nightmare for everyone who loves me,” Kelly wrote.
“Since then, I have faced further emergency procedures as my body endured severe trauma and dangerous swelling.”
Kelly’s family lives more than four hours away on the north-west coast.
Her sister Amy Cowmeadow previously told Pulse the ordeal had been “horrible” and that accommodation costs in Hobart were a major burden on the family.
A GoFundMe set up by Cowmeadow to help cover travel, accommodation and meals has now raised almost $16,000.
“I have a long road ahead, but I am determined to keep fighting,” Kelly wrote.
“Having my family near me will make all the difference.”
“Thank you so much for your kindness, support and prayers.”
