Facing HELLP Syndrome: Candice Davis’s Journey Through Pregnancy and Recovery

Candice Davis enjoyed a smooth first pregnancy until June 14, 2025, just days before her due date. Initially, the day seemed normal. However, as time went on, Davis began to feel nauseous while relaxing by her pool. Her discomfort escalated to severe upper abdominal pain. Despite initially resisting, she eventually heeded the advice of her husband and her friend, OB-GYN Dr. Susan Passarella, and went to the emergency room.

At Baptist Hospital’s obstetric emergency department in Pensacola, Florida, tests revealed that Davis had elevated blood pressure. Doctors monitored her overnight, but her condition quickly worsened. Davis’s pain intensified, her blood pressure increased further, and her liver enzymes showed alarming results. The medical team decided to induce labor. Despite her desire for a natural birth, circumstances forced a cesarean section due to escalating complications.

And thank goodness we did. I was in a lot of pain.

Davis was diagnosed with HELLP syndrome, a severe condition associated with preeclampsia that affects the liver and can lead to bleeding. While preeclampsia affects 5% to 8% of pregnancies, HELLP syndrome is rare, occurring in only 0.01% to 0.06% of cases. Davis’s son was delivered safely, but complications arose when pressure was released from a 17-centimeter lesion on her liver, causing severe bleeding.

The medical team was prepared for this possibility. However, Davis became too unstable for additional surgery. Doctors packed her body with sterile materials overnight until she regained enough strength. Unable to breathe independently, Davis’s condition worried her care team.

Is she going to survive this?

After 24 hours, the bleeding was under control. Davis began breathing unaided the following day and gradually became conscious. Her first memory was of holding her newborn son two days later while still in intensive care.

The ordeal was far from over. Blood clots developed in Davis’s left hand. Since blood thinners posed a risk of liver bleeding, alternatives were explored. Ultimately, Davis lost her thumb and parts of her other fingers. Over subsequent weeks, she underwent six surgeries and engaged in therapy to regain hand functionality while caring for her newborn.

The family has since adapted to these changes. Despite initial challenges, Davis learned to care for her son independently with adaptive devices. Her recovery has been swift, allowing her to participate in physical activities, including a planned relay race with Dr. Passarella. The family chose to spend time relaxing by the beach, celebrating their resilience.

Davis hopes her story encourages pregnant women to heed bodily signals.

It’s important to listen to your body. If something feels off, get checked out.