Darius M., 11

Darius is a 12-year-old boy who was brought to a children’s home by a Good Samaritan after being rescued from the streets, where he had reportedly lived for a considerable time. He could not explain how he became homeless or provide information about his parents’ whereabouts. With no immediate family support, he now depends on the home for protection, shelter, education and daily care. The home learned about Helpster Charity through a visit by Rheemah Hospital’s medical team. Three days before coming to the hospital, Darius developed high fever, chills, shivering, vomiting, a cough, and widespread body and joint pains. He was given paracetamol, but his symptoms persisted. When his condition worsened the following day, he was taken to Rheemah Hospital. Following examination, Darius was diagnosed with severe, complicated malaria, an acute upper respiratory tract infection and acute bronchitis. The children’s home continues to provide a supportive environment as he receives care and works towards a more stable future.

Darius prognosis is good. Darius presented with vomiting intractable, high grade fevers, chills and rigors, generalised body aches and join aches, confusion and cough productive upon arrival to Rheemah Hospital. Prompt examination was conducted and he was diagnosed with severe and complicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria, Acute upper respiratory infections and Acute bronchitis. Treatment improved Darius breathing, reduced fever, cough and weakness, prevented malaria complications and restored his energy, sleep, school attendance and normal activities. If left untreated, the conditions could've worsened, causing severe malaria complications, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, organ damage or death.