What began as typical freshers' week symptoms nearly cost a first-year student his life after doctors initially misdiagnosed his condition as freshers' flu. Harry Mellor, 18, arrived at the University of Liverpool full of excitement for his new chapter, but within days found himself fighting for survival.
The Beginning of a Medical Nightmare
Harry started experiencing what appeared to be common freshers' week ailments - a sore throat, headache, and general fatigue. His concerned mother, Sarah Mellor, 48, encouraged him to visit the university GP service, where he was diagnosed with freshers' flu and sent away with standard advice to rest and hydrate.
"We trusted the medical opinion," Sarah recounted. "When they said it was just freshers' flu, we had no reason to doubt them. But Harry's condition continued to deteriorate alarmingly."
A Race Against Time
As Harry's symptoms worsened, his family grew increasingly concerned. The sore throat became unbearable, his fever spiked, and he developed a distinctive rash. When his mother visited him at university, she immediately recognised the signs of something far more serious.
"I knew this wasn't normal freshers' flu," Sarah said. "The rash was the final red flag. We rushed him to A&E, where our worst fears were confirmed."
The Devastating Diagnosis
Medical professionals at the hospital identified Harry's condition as sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Further testing revealed he was also suffering from meningitis.
"The doctors were absolutely brilliant once we got to hospital," Sarah said. "They acted immediately, starting intravenous antibiotics and providing the urgent care he needed. Those first 24 hours were critical."
The Road to Recovery
Harry spent several days in hospital receiving intensive treatment. His recovery has been gradual, and the emotional impact on both Harry and his family remains significant.
"It's been terrifying for all of us," Sarah shared. "One moment you're dropping your son off at university for the adventure of his life, the next you're watching him fight for survival in a hospital bed."
A Mother's Warning to Other Families
The Mellor family now wants to raise awareness about the dangers of dismissing serious symptoms as minor illnesses, particularly during freshers' period when students are exposed to new environments and infections.
"Trust your instincts," Sarah urged. "If you feel something isn't right with your child, persist. We were lucky we acted when we did. That rash saved his life - it's what made us demand further medical attention."
Harry has since returned to his studies at the University of Liverpool, but his experience serves as a sobering reminder that what appears to be common freshers' flu can sometimes mask life-threatening conditions.
