Sapphire K., 12

Sapphire Kawira, the second-born in her family, is being raised by her mother after the death of her father. She is a Grade 8 pupil, recognized by teachers and classmates as bright, disciplined, and hardworking. She enjoys playing handball and dreams of becoming a doctor to help others. In 2023, Sapphire began experiencing health issues, starting with a severe burning sensation in her stomach and persistent abdominal pain. Over time, she developed joint pains that progressively worsened, affecting her ability to attend school and participate in activities. She also suffered from intense headaches sometimes accompanied by blurred vision. Currently, she is unable to walk and can only stand with difficulty. Her mother sought care at several local health centres, but the facilities were unable to properly diagnose her condition. Financial constraints prevented her from accessing specialized care at higher-level hospitals. Concerned by Sapphire’s prolonged absence, one of her teachers, having seen a Helpster Charity poster, reached out to Consolata Hospital Nkubu on her behalf. At the hospital, specialists evaluated Sapphire and diagnosed her with Helicobacter pylori induced gastritis, explaining her stomach pain, and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in an exacerbated stage, accounting for her severe joint pain and limited mobility. Sapphire was discharged on home medication, but eight days after discharge, she began experiencing worsening epigastric pain after meals and nausea. Initially hesitant, her mother later reported that Sapphire was vomiting heavily, with blood-stained vomitus, prompting her return to the hospital for re-admission. After consultation between the Helpster Charity CM with the hospital team, the re-admission was approved following a video call discussion over the condition of the child.

The child was admitted and placed under close medical care for management of both the stomach and joint conditions. Treatment for the gastrointestinal issue included medications to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics where needed, supportive fluids, and a carefully guided diet to promote healing of the stomach lining. For the joint condition, she received anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications together with physiotherapy to reduce pain, stiffness, and improve mobility. Following treatment, the child showed steady improvement, with reduced abdominal pain, improved appetite, and better overall comfort. The joint pain and swelling also decreased, allowing improved movement and participation in light activities. She is currently in a stable condition but will require continued medication, follow-up visits, physiotherapy, and long-term monitoring to support full recovery and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

The doctors emphasized that Sapphire’s condition is serious and requires immediate, intensive medical care, including: Stabilization of gastrointestinal bleeding Medication to reduce stomach acid, protect the stomach lining, and treat H. pylori infection Supportive care for hydration and nutrition Ongoing management with anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications, alongside physiotherapy as appropriate With prompt and appropriate treatment, Sapphire’s peptic ulcer complications can be controlled, bleeding stopped, and her gastrointestinal symptoms managed. Recovery depends on strict adherence to medication, follow-up endoscopy if needed, and dietary modifications. For Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, although chronic, early intervention and consistent management can control inflammation, reduce pain, and preserve joint function. With proper care, Sapphire has a good chance of regaining stability, improving mobility, and eventually returning to school, though she will require long-term follow-up for both conditions.