Ileen G., 20

Ileen is the first-born child in her family and lives with her mother in a small single-room house. She completed high school but has not secured formal employment. When she is well, she works occasionally as a casual laborer in a local salon. In her free time, she practices hair plaiting, nurturing her dream of one day owning her own salon. Ileen recalls that she began feeling unwell one morning and, having missed her monthly periods, decided to take a pregnancy test. After borrowing money to purchase a test kit, the result confirmed that she was pregnant. She informed the father of the child, who initially agreed to take responsibility. However, a few months into the pregnancy, he lost his job and subsequently abandoned her. Feeling alone and discouraged, Ileen confided in her mother, who encouraged her to begin attending antenatal care (ANC). She managed to attend two clinic visits, walking for over one and a half hours each way because she could not afford motorbike transport. One morning, she woke up with a severe headache and experienced persistent dizziness whenever she sat or stood. She took painkillers, but by evening the headache had worsened. Later that night, she began convulsing. Her mother initially feared that she had been bewitched and called members of her church to pray for her, but her condition did not improve. A concerned neighbor, hearing the commotion, advised them to take Ileen to the hospital immediately. At the facility, initial tests revealed that she had dangerously high blood pressure, and she was referred to Siaya County Referral Hospital for further management. The family had previously heard about Helpster Charity during a church service when a gentleman visited to share information about the organization and its support for vulnerable patients. This gave them hope that assistance might be available during this difficult time.

Ileen was brought to the hospital with high blood pressure and convulsions, he was admitted for an emergency surgery which was a success. Post surgery she was administered ceftriaxone, IV plastic, oxytocin, normal saline other broad-spectrum antibiotics and painkillers, to which she responded well. Her dressing was removed after 72 hrs and ambulation was encouraged. Ileen recovered and before discharge could walk around the ward . She was eventually discharged on orals and a call to her revealed her and her baby were doing well

This scenario describes a critically ill patient facing a dual medical catastrophe. The prognosis is guarded and potentially fatal, as both severe malaria and preeclampsia with severe features (PET) are leading causes of maternal mortality globally, however with prompt medical intervention and quality care the patient has a chance at a full recovery