Joan A., 20

Joan was married at a young age after she was forced to discontinue her education due to the financial challenges her family was facing. She is a sociable and hardworking woman who relates well with both her family and the community. Both she and her husband are total orphans. Without a permanent source of income, Joan survives by taking up any casual work available to provide food for her family. About a year ago, her husband suddenly developed a mental illness of unknown cause, leaving him unable to work or support the family. This unfortunate situation made Joan the sole breadwinner and primary caregiver for the household. She is now responsible for three children and depends partly on support from her cousin-in-law, as her husband has no siblings. During her pregnancy, Joan had been in good health and was enjoying her maternal journey. However, one night at around 11:00 p.m., she suddenly started experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding accompanied by severe lower abdominal pain. As the pain intensified and her condition worsened, she was rushed to the hospital by her cousin-in-law for urgent assessment and management. She was diagnosed with antepartum haemorrhage, a life-threatening obstetric emergency, and required an urgent caesarean section to save both her life and that of the baby. While at the hospital, Joan learned about Helpster Charity through a healthcare worker who informed her about the organisation’s support for vulnerable patients unable to afford medical care. Following an assessment of her financial situation, she was enrolled for support under Helpster Charity, which enabled her to receive the lifesaving surgical intervention and subsequent medical care.

The mother, with a history of a previous Caesarean section, was admitted and assessed. Due to the presence of a previous uterine scar, a decision was made to perform a repeat Caesarean section. She was counseled, consent obtained, and pre-operative preparations completed. The surgery was successfully conducted, resulting in the delivery of a healthy baby. Post-operatively, the mother was stable and received routine care, including analgesics, antibiotics, and monitoring. Early ambulation and breastfeeding were initiated. The wound healed well, and no complications were noted. She was discharged in good condition with appropriate health education and follow-up instructions.

Joan underwent an emergency caesarean section due to antepartum haemorrhage. Following the surgical intervention, her condition is stabilising, and both mother and baby are responding well to treatment. With appropriate post-operative care, monitoring, and medication, Joan’s recovery will be satisfactory.