Candice Davis had an unexpectedly smooth first pregnancy. Her regular checkups showed no issues, and symptoms were minimal until June 14, 2025, close to her due date. That day seemed typical, yet by afternoon, Davis felt nauseous and experienced upper abdominal pain. Despite initial reluctance, her husband and Dr. Susan Passarella, a friend and OB-GYN, urged her to visit the hospital.
Emergency Hospital Visit
At Baptist Hospital’s obstetric emergency department in Pensacola, Florida, Davis was found to have high blood pressure. Doctors decided to monitor her overnight. Her condition deteriorated swiftly with intense pain and escalating blood pressure. Blood tests revealed dangerously high liver enzymes, leading the medical team to recommend inducing labor. Although Davis preferred natural birth, a cesarean section became necessary as her health worsened.
HELLP Syndrome Complications
Davis suffered from HELLP syndrome, a rare condition arising in conjunction with preeclampsia. It severely affects the liver and can cause excessive bleeding. HELLP syndrome affects a small fraction of pregnancies, occurring more than preeclampsia but remaining relatively uncommon.
Her son was delivered safely via C-section, but during the process, pressure was relieved from a significant injury in her liver, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. “Initially, doctors were optimistic about the lack of bleeding during delivery,” Davis recalled. “However, the situation changed quickly, and I was anesthetized urgently.”
Intensive Medical Response
Davis remained in critical condition as bleeding persisted. Medical staff packed her body with sterile materials, allowing time for her to stabilize. She could not breathe independently, raising fears she might not survive.
After 24 hours, doctors managed to halt the bleeding. Davis regained consciousness two days later and first held her son when he was four days old. “His presence calmed him and lowered my blood pressure,” Davis shared, highlighting a pivotal connection between mother and child.
Ongoing Recovery Challenges
Despite improving, Davis faced further health challenges. Blood clots formed in her left hand, leading to amputations after several surgeries. She couldn’t use blood thinners due to liver risks, forcing alternative treatments. Adapting to life with a newborn while recovering from surgery was strenuous, even with family support. Daily tasks, like changing diapers and feeding, required assistance during early recovery stages.
Adapting and Moving Forward
A year after her son’s birth, Davis and her family adjusted to a new normal. Successfully completing rehabilitation, she now independently cares for her son. Adaptive devices, like a prosthetic thumb, aid her at work and during fitness activities. This summer brought family relaxation and reflection at the beach. Davis plans a relay race in the fall with Dr. Passarella, embracing life post-recovery.
Reflecting on her journey, Davis encourages women to stay attuned to their bodies during pregnancy. “Don’t take a smooth pregnancy for granted,” she advises. “Listen to your body and seek medical attention if something feels off. It’s essential to differentiate pregnancy symptoms from potential health issues.”