Nicholas S., 16

Nicholas is the firstborn child in a family of two children. He comes from a humble background and attends a nearby school. His mother is bedridden and relies heavily on the support of well-wishers to meet the family's basic needs. To help support his education, Nicholas undertakes small casual jobs after school in addition to assistance received from well-wishers. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to his studies and dreams of becoming a teacher in the future. While collecting firewood in the school store, Nicholas accidentally sustained a puncture wound from a stick. Due to financial constraints, he was unable to seek medical attention immediately. Over time, the wound became increasingly painful, swollen, and infected, with pus discharging from the affected area. The pain worsened to the extent that he had difficulty walking and was unable to attend school or carry out his normal daily activities. As the swelling and discomfort continued to increase, his condition became a source of concern. A Community Health Volunteer later assessed him and referred him to the health facility for urgent medical evaluation and treatment.

Nicholas Shiuli presented with a two week history of a wound after getting pricked by a stick on the left limb,pain on that limb,hotness of the body and headache. On examination he was limping with a temperature of 37.4 degree Celsius.Tests were conducted and a diagnosis of cellulitis made.Incision and drainage was done,oral antibiotics and analgesia administered and daily cleaning and dressing of the wounds.Currently he is stable,normal gait restored and he is currently continuing with his studies and after school he helps his bedridden mother and younger brother with household chores.Nicholas is thankful to Helpster Charity for the support extended to him towards payment of the medical bill.

Nicholas Shiuli was diagnosed with cellulitis, received appropriate treatment,proper cleaning and dressing of the wounds and has shown complete clinical recovery with resolution of pain, swelling and associated symptoms.Currently there is no evidence of active infection or complications.The prognosis is excellent, following successful treatment and recovery,the patient has already resumed school,normal household activities and recurrence is unlikely provided good skin hygiene is managed and any future skin injures are promptly managed, something that Nicholas has been advised on.