Teen Hospitalized, Fights for Life Against E. Coli Strain from Market Food – Family’s GoFundMe Exceeds Target

Teen Hospitalized, Fights for Life Against E. Coli Strain from Market Food – Family’s GoFundMe Exceeds Target

Health Crisis After Christmas Market Visit

Antonia, a 17-year-old from Buckinghamshire, is in critical condition, having contracted a severe strain of E. Coli, likely STEC-HUS, after consuming food from a Christmas market.

Her battle over the past two weeks involved intensive care, multiple operations – including a bowel surgery – and a blood transfusion due to kidney failure, necessitating dialysis.

Family’s Emotional Journey

Her sister, Jemima Hay, initiated a GoFundMe campaign, detailing Antonia’s incredible determination amid excruciating pain, trauma, and her fear of injections.

Despite a brief Christmas reprieve at home, Antonia had to return to the hospital due to deteriorating kidney function.

Concerns for the Future

Antonia, an aspiring actress, worries about the long-term impact on her life and career, feeling that her dreams have been shattered.

Compounding the crisis, her father is without income due to taking time off work to be by her side.

Support and GoFundMe Success

Despite the grim situation, public support has been overwhelming, surpassing the fundraising goal of £5,000 within 24 hours, nearing £8,000.

The funds are crucial for ongoing treatments, recovery, and enabling Antonia to pursue her performing arts aspirations.

E. Coli Outbreak Concerns

Amidst this, an E. Coli outbreak involving Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire cheese has affected 30 Britons, prompting urgent recalls and ‘do not eat’ alerts due to contamination fears.

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