Anaheim family fights to keep mother of seven on life support

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- The family of a woman, who has been on life support for six weeks, is fighting to keep her alive. Lisa Avila, a mother of seven, went into cardiac arrest and slipped into a coma after she was sent home from the hospital on Feb. 14.

The family blames Anaheim Regional Medical Center for misdiagnosing an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo is implanted outside the uterus.

"It's been really hard. I try to stay strong for my brothers and sisters, especially the babies," said Cynthia Holguin, Avila's eldest daughter.

Her family said the hospital planned to remove her ventilator Friday afternoon after two doctors declared Avila brain-dead, but her family believes Avila can recover.

"She moves a lot," said Justin Holguin, Avila's daughter.

After meeting with hospital officials, Avila's family was able to buy more time until Tuesday at noon.

"We now have the chance to bring in our own neurologist," said Avila's aunt, Jessica Jule.

Family members say they're searching outside the state to try to find a long-term care facility that will accept her.

"Hopefully, between the time, she wakes up. That's all we want, for her to come home with us," Cynthia Holguin said through tears.

Anaheim Regional Medical Center says it can't comment on specific cases because of patient privacy laws.

"This is a very difficult situation. We extend our deepest, heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of the patient. They remain in our thoughts and prayers," the hospital said in a statement.

The family has set up a GoFundMe account. You can donate here: http://www.gofundme.com/Mother-in-coma.