Woman Weighing 825 pounds Denied Re-entry to Her Wayne Apartment, Cited as a Fire Hazard

In Wayne, a woman weighing approximately 825 pounds reportedly has no choice but to leave her hospital care, as she’s not allowed to return to her apartment on the eighth floor upon being labeled a “fire hazard” due to her limited mobility.

Juaunia Bates, the woman in question, shared her heart-wrenching story stating, “I just can’t keep living like this. I want to be free.” Sadly, her health has taken a toll over the past few years causing her weight to drastically increase, particularly as she took solace at home following a tragic event
in 2018 where her boyfriend was tragically murdered. Following his death, Bates mentioned that she hasn’t left her apartment in nearly two years which has exacerbated her health situation.

‘Imprisoned’ in her Own Body

Due to her significant weight gain over time, Bates mentioned she eventually began feeling trapped not just in her apartment, but also within her body. This has affected her quality of life significantly, causing her to spend most of her days confined to her bed. The constant care she requires from her ageing mother has also been a cause of concern for her.

In addition to obesity, Bates suffers from lymphedema in her legs – an extreme swelling caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system. This condition is often accompanied by painful bed sores. Not surprisingly, Bates’ aggravated condition led to hospitalization when, just last month, she describes the pain to be akin to “a knife being constantly turned in my legs.“

Although 15 paramedics and firefighters eventually managed to transport her to the hospital via the apartment complex elevator, her journey doesn’t end there. Much to her despair, despite her health condition, Bates now finds herself facing potential discharge since her apartment’s Administration has deemed her situation to pose a fire hazard.

Uncertain Future and Struggle for Adequate Housing

While Bates is due for discharge at the stroke of midnight on Thursday, her future remains uncertain. She is left to appeal for an extension of her hospital stay as well as negotiate for suitable Section-8 housing. She states, “They are trying to get me a lower floor but right now, it’s nothing available… I have nowhere to go.”

In desperate need of aid, Juaunia remains hopeful for a turn in her circumstances, realizing the life or death urgency of her situation, she states, “I just want the help. I don’t want to be like this anymore. I’m tired, my body is tired, and I don’t want to die.”

As she fights for her health and a suitable living situation, it becomes evident that there are limited resources available to accommodate the needs of larger individuals within the affordable housing sector. This grave situation calls for immediate attention and comprehensive support from the necessary authorities.