Join Eliana Shaw-Lothian as she recounts her harrowing experience with meningitis and the vital lessons learned along the way.
Eliana Shaw-Lothian, an 18-year-old university student, faced a life-altering experience just weeks into her first term. Her story underscores the importance of being vigilant about health.
The Beginning of a Harrowing Journey
On a seemingly ordinary Friday morning, Eliana woke up with a severe headache.
Initially, she dismissed it as just another common ailment. However, by Saturday morning, after a restless night, her condition deteriorated.
As her symptoms worsened, including nausea and delirium, her concerned parents, unable to reach her, began making frantic calls. Fortunately, her flatmates checked on her and found her disoriented.
They promptly contacted campus security. Although there was a delay with the ambulance, her friends quickly ensured she received the necessary medical assistance.
Once admitted to the hospital, Eliana’s condition became critical. Doctors diagnosed her with bacterial meningitis, a serious illness that requires immediate treatment.
She was placed in the ICU, fighting for her life while her parents were by her side, hoping for a miracle.
Facing the Unknown
Imagine waking up from an induced coma, unable to recognize your own parents. That was Eliana’s reality after her near-fatal encounter with bacterial meningitis. The last memory she had was of feeling the need to go to the hospital. Upon waking days later, she found herself in intensive care, surrounded by life-support machines.
This experience left her with a profound sense of disorientation and fear. “Waking up was terrifying,” she recalls. “I had no idea what was happening.” Medical staff informed her of her diagnosis and that she had narrowly escaped death. The weight of that revelation was life-changing.
Following her recovery, Eliana faced significant challenges. Simple tasks, such as eating and walking, felt overwhelming. As a dancer, these hurdles were particularly difficult, but she persevered. “I’m so grateful to be alive,” she states. “So many aren’t as lucky.” Her determination to return to dance exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit.
Raising Awareness
Two years later, Eliana is not only a survivor but also an advocate for change. Her experience inspired her to raise awareness about meningitis, particularly among students who are at higher risk. “My advice to freshers is to stay in touch with loved ones,” she emphasizes. “When I didn’t message my parents, they knew something was off.” Maintaining open lines of communication can indeed be lifesaving.
She stresses the importance of recognizing symptoms early, as meningitis can mimic a severe flu or hangover, making it easily overlooked. “If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate—get checked!” she urges. The consequences of inaction can be severe. Eliana’s journey highlights the importance of vigilance and trusting one’s instincts regarding health.
Additionally, Eliana collaborates with Meningitis Research UK to amplify her message, particularly during Freshers’ Week. “It’s vital for everyone to be aware of the symptoms and to get vaccinated,” she explains. Although she had received the MenACWY vaccine, it did not protect her against the strain she contracted. This emphasizes the need for widespread awareness.
On a seemingly ordinary Friday morning, Eliana woke up with a severe headache. Initially, she dismissed it as just another common ailment. However, by Saturday morning, after a restless night, her condition deteriorated. 0
