A Freshman’s Nightmare

Eliana Shaw-Lothian, an 18-year-old freshman at England's University of Surrey, faced a shocking medical emergency that almost cost her life during her first year of college.

The Signs Ignored

Initially struggling with severe headaches, Eliana thought rest would help. "I slept all day, but when I awoke, I felt shaky, dizzy, and faint," she recalls. Frantically calling her parents, her mother asked about a rash—a common meningitis symptom—but Eliana saw nothing. Attempting to rest again, her condition spiraled. "I started throwing up and couldn’t move well due to stiff muscles."

The Alarming Decline

Meningitis is a serious inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord, typically spread through close contact. Living in dorms increases vulnerability. Symptoms include fever, severe headaches, and neck stiffness—warning signs that Eliana was experiencing. As her condition worsened, she even felt paralyzed.

Rescue Mission

After numerous unanswered calls, her roommate discovered her 'completely delirious' in her room. With alarm bells ringing, her roommate and parents called for help, leading to an emergency room visit. Eliana's last recollection was her plea to go to the hospital; she woke up three days later in the ICU.

A Battle for Survival

By the time she reached the hospital, Eliana’s symptoms had intensified—her lips were turning blue, and she was hallucinating. Doctors reported that she was in 'acute danger' and started treating her for both bacterial and viral meningitis, alongside sepsis. They induced a coma and placed her on a ventilator.

A Second Chance

When Eliana awakened, the gravity of her situation hit hard. "I will never forget being told I had bacterial meningitis and was close to death," she said. After two years of enduring lingering effects such as hearing loss and motor skill challenges, she fought daily to reclaim her life.

Resilience in Recovery

Eliana’s journey back to normalcy wasn’t easy; even simple tasks like eating and walking became hurdles for her as a dancer. Yet, she persevered, returning to university life and even joining her school’s dance team. "You want to get back to normal as quickly as possible," she expressed.

A Message to Others

Eliana is determined to raise awareness about the signs of meningitis, especially among students living in shared accommodations. "Understanding these symptoms can be lifesaving," she warned, highlighting the importance of early detection in preventing such harrowing experiences.