Arizona Woman Hospitalized After Contracting Botulism From Fermented Swordfish

Rare foodborne illness left Trinity Peterson-Mayes temporarily paralyzed and on a ventilator.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:10am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 24-year-old Phoenix woman named Trinity Peterson-Mayes was hospitalized with a severe case of foodborne botulism after trying a bite of fermented swordfish made by a friend. The rare illness left her temporarily paralyzed and on a ventilator, and two other friends who also tried the fish were also hospitalized with botulism but are now recovering.

Why it matters

Botulism from food is an extremely rare but serious condition that can shut down the muscles needed to breathe. This case highlights the potential dangers of consuming improperly prepared fermented foods, which can harbor the botulinum toxin.

The details

Peterson-Mayes initially had trouble swallowing water and nearly choked on coffee before going to the ER, where doctors struggled to diagnose the problem. She was later transferred to a hospital and diagnosed with botulism, which required antitoxin treatment. She says she blacked out and woke up unable to move, speak, or breathe on her own.

  • In February 2026, Peterson-Mayes tried a bite of fermented swordfish made by a friend.
  • Shortly after, she began experiencing symptoms and went to the ER.

The players

Trinity Peterson-Mayes

A 24-year-old Phoenix wedding planner who twice survived childhood cancer.

Dr. Frank LoVecchio

An emergency physician who notes there are about two dozen botulism cases per year in the U.S.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was 'supposed to be good for your gut,' says Trinity Peterson-Mayes of the fermented swordfish, made by a friend, that she tried a quarter-size bite of in February.”

— Trinity Peterson-Mayes (12News)

“It was horrible. It was so bad I figured it might give me a stomachache. But I did not expect this.”

— Trinity Peterson-Mayes (12News)

What’s next

Peterson-Mayes is currently in a rehabilitation facility as she recovers from the botulism.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of improperly prepared fermented foods, which can harbor the deadly botulinum toxin. It highlights the importance of food safety education and the need for caution when consuming homemade fermented products.