Every once in a while, we witness stories that redefine courage and resilience. This is the journey of a 7-year-old girl, a true warrior who fought a daunting battle for survival after a devastating road traffic accident (RTA). With multiple life-threatening injuries, including severe lung contusion, liver laceration, kidney and urethral injuries, a pelvic fracture, and a degloving injury on her right thigh, her condition was critical when she arrived at our hospital.

When she was brought in, she was in severe shock, intubated, and dependent on massive transfusions and triple inotropes to support her failing body. Despite the grim prognosis, a dedicated team of doctors, including Dr Gautam Chakraborty, Dr Atul Srivastava, Dr Aditya Kanoi, and myself, decided on a conservative yet strategic approach after thoroughly assessing her scans.

Night of Uncertainty and a Life-Saving Discovery

A Night of Uncertainty and a Life-Saving Discovery

The first 12 hours were a nightmare. Her shock worsened to such an extent that we considered placing her on ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), a last-resort life-support machine. She was rushed in for an emergency high-risk laparotomy, supported by an exceptional anaesthesia team.

What we discovered during the procedure was shocking—her bladder was massively swollen, packed with blood clots, preventing proper drainage through the Foley catheter. This created dangerous pressure on the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC), worsening her condition. By relieving the pressure and placing a suprapubic catheter, we saw a glimmer of hope as her vitals slowly stabilised.

Weeks of Struggles, Small Victories, & Unshakable Strength

Her fight didn’t end there. Over the next four weeks, she endured:

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
Sepsis
Excruciating pain

With round-the-clock medical care, VAC dressings, and tireless efforts from our physiotherapy and nursing teams, she began to heal. Every day was a test of endurance, but she never stopped fighting.

On March 8th, we celebrated her birthday in the ICU, a moment of joy amidst her struggles. Then, after six long weeks, on March 19th, we had the privilege of discharging her from the hospital. The smile on her face said it all: "I am not giving up."

The Road Ahead: A Story of Unbreakable Spirit

Her journey is far from over. Skin grafting has just begun, and she has yet to stand on her feet. But if there’s one thing she has shown us, it’s that she is a fighter.

It’s a story of a little girl who refused to surrender. We salute her strength and are honoured to have been a part of her incredible fight for life.

Final Thoughts

This young warrior’s journey is a testament to the power of courage, teamwork, and unwavering determination. While her battle isn’t over, her strength continues to inspire us all. Let’s stand together in support of those facing similar challenges.

Spread awareness about trauma care and recovery.
Express gratitude to the healthcare heroes who make miracles happen.
Share this story to inspire others never to give up.

Every act of kindness, support, and encouragement makes a difference. Because hope, when shared, becomes unstoppable.