Unusual deaths of this nature are reminiscent of something out of The X-Files. They called Gloria Ramirez the “Toxic Lady” as nearly every person who operated on her in the final moments of her life become uncontrollably ill – and to this day, nobody knows why.
On Feb. 19, 1994, Ramirez’s family rushed her to the hospital. Doctors discovered that her heartbeat was way too fast. Her blood pressure had also dropped dangerously low and she was unable to answer questions coherently.
Gloria Ramirez was only 31-years-old, when the doctors treated her. She had cervical cancer, and though these weren’t the usual symptoms, they were willing to attribute whatever signs she had to her disease. So doctors focused on simply keeping her alive.
Defibrillation of her heart was the next step. Doctors removed her shirt and discovered that her skin was covered in an oily sheen. A strange fruity, garlicky smell emanated from her mouth.
One of the nurses in the room complained of a burning sensation on her face, then fainted. Another developed breathing problems and apnea. Soon after, yet another nurse passed out. When she came to, she couldn’t move her arms or legs. All in all, 23 out of 37 staff members caring for Ramirez experienced at least one symptom.
The hospital was ordered to evacuate, but a few doctors remained behind to try and save Ramirez. They didn’t succeed. Ramirez died at 8:50 p.m. that night, and her body was placed in isolation.