Joshua M., 15

Joshua Mumo is a 15-year-old boy living in a Children’s Home. He is well-behaved, kind and academically gifted, enjoys football and making friends, and dreams of becoming a lecturer. Joshua was abandoned by his parents in a Nairobi informal settlement in 2021 and struggled on the streets until a church leader connected him to the Children’s Home, where he found shelter and support. The home later learnt about Helpster Charity during a visit by a Helpster volunteer and medical personnel from Rheemah Hospital. Five days before admission, Joshua developed poor appetite, persistent abdominal pain and nausea. Despite receiving medication for four days, his symptoms progressively worsened. He became increasingly weak, ate and drank very little and developed features of significant dehydration. The home’s matron took him to Rheemah Hospital, where clinical assessment and investigations confirmed exacerbated peptic ulcer disease with severe dehydration. He was admitted and commenced on IV fluids, anti-ulcer medication, pain management and supportive care, with close monitoring of his hydration, nutrition and response to treatment.

Joshua was diagnosed with exacerbated peptic ulcer disease with severe dehydration after persistent abdominal pain, nausea and markedly reduced oral intake. Severe dehydration can compromise circulation and kidney function, while worsening PUD may cause gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation. Admission for IV fluids, anti-ulcer therapy, pain control, nutritional support and close monitoring was appropriate. With timely treatment and adequate rehydration, Joshua’s prognosis is favourable, although follow-up is important to prevent recurrence.