Chris Cline of the Daily Journal wrote a moving article about two-year-old Emilie Allen, of Bonne Terre, who contracted E. coli in September and is still suffering complications. She was in the hospital for nearly two months after suffering kidney failure. She was on dialysis until October 19.

According to the article, the St. Francois County Health Department conducted routine inspections at two local restaurants on Oct. 4 in an attempt to identify where the strain of E. coli originated that infected the 2-year-old Bonne Terre girl. Officials said no direct links were made to the origin of the strain of E. coli 0157:H7. In addition to inspecting the food establishments, a water sample out of the private well at the residence of the Allens was also tested. The water sample also came back negative.

A benefit account for Emilie is still open at First State Community Bank locations.