Pauline N., 12

Pauline is a 12-year-old girl at New Beginning Children’s Home who enjoys basketball and music. A Good Samaritan brought her to the home after her father, her only known parent, left for work and never returned. Despite a police report, he remains untraced. The home depends on well-wishers for food, education, clothing, healthcare and other basic needs. Pauline developed a persistent headache. Juliet, a volunteer at the home, took her to a nearby clinic, where she received painkillers. Her condition worsened the following day, with body aches, vomiting, rapid breathing and chest pain. Juliet then took her to Rheemah Hospital, where she presented with headache, vomiting, fever, chills, shivering and widespread body pain. Following examination, she was diagnosed with bronchopneumonia and malaria. The home learned about Helpster Charity through a visit by Rheemah Medical Practitioners and subsequent contact with Vincent, a Helpster volunteer.

Pauline prognosis is generally good. Pauline upon arrival presented with Headache, vomiting, HoB, chills and rigors and generalised body aches. After thorough examination she was diagnosed with Bronchopneumonia and Malaria. Prompt treatment began and was admitted at Rheemah Hospital for 4 days where she was discharged when stable and back to herself again. Treatment improved Pauline's breathing, reduced fever, weakness and other symptoms, restored her energy, appetite, sleep and school participation. If untreated the conditions may worsen causing severe breathing problems, anaemia, organ complications, coma and potentially death.