Patrick W., 2

Patrick is normally a cheerful and playful child who enjoys playing with ball toys. However, over the past week, he became increasingly unwell, developing persistent cough, runny nose, high fever, painful swallowing, poor feeding, loss of appetite, marked weakness and wheezing. His symptoms were particularly severe at night, when he experienced recurrent fever, worsening breathing difficulty and restlessness. He became too weak to play and struggled to eat normally. His caregiver, Muthoni, initially took him to a government dispensary but was advised to register for Social Health Authority cover. Unable to afford the required contribution, she returned home without treatment. She later borrowed about USD 1 to buy paracetamol, but Patrick continued to deteriorate. Muthoni lives on the streets and survives on occasional casual jobs such as washing clothes and gardening, leaving her with very limited resources. Desperate to find help for Patrick, she approached her church and was connected to Helpster Charity. Patrick was subsequently taken to Goodhope Hospital, where he accessed the urgent medical care he needed through Helpster’s support.

Patrick was brought into the hospital and diagnosed with severe pneumonia and tonsillitis. He spent three days in hospital receiving intravenous treatment of antibiotic, antihistamines and antipyretic medication. After two days Patrick was feeling better, fever and pain had resolved with moderate cough. He was able to eat, drink and breathe with ease. His mother was very happy and grateful to Helpster charity for making her son's life better again after many days of suffering in the streets borrowing money with vain with no one could understand her challenges. Muthoni was extremely excited she couldn't believe she would get such kind of help in her life, to her, Helpster charity is like a God sent miracle. Three days later, Patrick was feeling better and feed well,he was discharged from the hospital to go and continue with the oral drugs at home.

Patrick presented with symptoms consistent with severe pneumonia, including persistent cough, high fever, chest wheezing, painful swallowing, and worsening breathing difficulties. His condition was aggravated by delayed access to medical care due to financial constraints. Following admission, he received appropriate treatment, close monitoring, and supportive care. With the current medical intervention, Patrick will show signs of improvement. The prognosis is favorable. Continued care will support full recovery and reduce the risk of complications.