A Journey of Survival and Advocacy
Mrs. Temishe Happiness, a UK-based mother and popular TikTok personality, shares her harrowing experience with medical negligence that led to the loss of sight in one eye and the death of her baby. Her story is one of survival, resilience, and a deep commitment to advocating for other women.
Background and Origins
Though many people on TikTok know me simply as Mrs. Temishe, I’m from Kogi State, and my husband is from Ondo State. My journey began in Nigeria, where I experienced the devastating consequences of a flawed healthcare system.
The Tragedy Unfolds
In one of my videos, I revealed how the healthcare system played a major role in my tragedies. I love Nigeria and Nigerians; we are strong, resilient, and vibrant people. But when I needed the healthcare system the most, it completely failed me. I was left devastated at a time that should have been filled with joy. The support systems I depended on as a mother were absent, and what should have been a minor health issue escalated into life-changing events.
The Initial Illness
It began in my first trimester, around the third month. I was extremely ill, constantly fatigued, weak, and unable to eat. I would be served food in the morning, but I couldn’t even take a spoonful. Eventually, my husband rushed me to the hospital.
At the hospital, it was discovered that my blood sugar was dangerously high, and I began treatment immediately. While there, I developed a severe headache that no painkiller could relieve. Despite this, the doctors discharged me. Looking back, I believe that was a critical moment, and timely care at that point could have made all the difference.
The Eye Clinic Experience
The next morning, I woke up with swollen eyes. One eye, in particular, looked unnatural, and my vision was already blurring. We returned to the hospital, and they referred me to a nearby Indian eye clinic for further evaluation.
The doctor recommended a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan. Initially, I hesitated because I was pregnant and feared it could harm the baby. But as my condition worsened rapidly, I had no choice.
After the MRI, the doctor asked me to read using the affected eye. My vision was already severely impaired. He warned that urgent intervention was needed to prevent permanent blindness and advised us to seek more specialized care.
The Diagnosis and Hospital Stay
By that time, I had already done a scan at Eco Scan in Abuja, which confirmed it was an Ear-Nose-Throat-related issue. The scan revealed that the problem was connected to my ENT system; it had started from my sinuses and was spreading toward my eye. The diagnosis was pansinusitis, which had initially been mistaken for orbital cellulitis.
The infection was already threatening my brain. In simple terms, it was a severe sinus infection that, if left untreated, could spread to the eye and brain.
I was admitted to Nisa Premier Hospital in Abuja, and because I was pregnant, the maternity ward was supposed to manage my case alongside the ENT team. However, that never happened. I spent an entire week there without seeing a proper ENT specialist.
The few doctors who attended to me seemed inexperienced or unsure of the next steps. The maternity team, who should have been monitoring both me and my baby, never came.
The Final Outcome
Before this stage, I could still see a little through the affected eye. But because of the delay in treatment, I eventually lost sight in that eye. At the time, I was too overwhelmed by pain to even think about legal action.
Finally, after a week, the ENT specialist appeared. His words were chilling: “If you like, stay here. If you like, don’t. Start making your way to the National Hospital.”
Hearing that after a week of suffering made me feel like my pain didn’t matter.
Losing the Baby
Yes, we went there immediately. The doctors did their best, but it was already too late to save my eye. They performed sinus surgery, but the experience itself was frightening. The generator was running inside the operating theatre, which only increased my anxiety about the safety of the procedure.
During the surgery, the inflammation had pushed my eyeball forward, and the surgeons had to stitch it back while I was still awake. The pain was unbearable.
The surgery left permanent scars on my face and did not restore my vision. All of this began from what should have been a minor sinus infection, something that could have been treated effectively with timely care.
Beyond losing my sight, I also lost my baby. This was during my third pregnancy. As I approached delivery, I suffered a placental abruption; my placenta suddenly detached.
I began bleeding heavily. The doctors carried out an emergency operation, but unfortunately, my baby boy had already passed away before he could be delivered.
In just a few months, I lost sight in one eye and lost my child. It was the most traumatic period of my life, one I will never forget.
Reactions and Legal Action
How did you feel when you realized you had lost your sight?
It shattered me completely. Losing my vision was devastating, but losing my son plunged me into deeper grief. I couldn’t believe that something as seemingly small as a sinus infection could lead to so much damage. I felt powerless, frustrated, and deeply betrayed by the system that was supposed to care for me.
When exactly did this happen?
Five years ago. I only chose to speak publicly now after seeing another woman experience something similar. I couldn’t stay silent any longer. Sharing my story is my way of raising awareness and helping to prevent such tragedies from happening to others.
Do you believe this tragedy could have been prevented?
Absolutely. With timely intervention, proper facilities, and diligent follow-up, I am convinced I wouldn’t have lost my sight or my son. It was entirely avoidable.
Was this incident what made you decide to leave Nigeria?
Yes. Staying in Nigeria constantly reopened old wounds. I lost trust in the healthcare system, so I relocated to the UK four years later.
Moving Forward
How did you process all of this pain?
At first, I felt broken, like my whole world had collapsed. But I soon realized I had only two choices: drown in despair or fight to survive. I chose survival. I leaned on my faith, inner strength, and the unwavering support of my husband and family. They carried me through the darkest moments.
Later, I had to undergo a second sinus surgery in Nigeria to prevent the infection from spreading further. That procedure was handled properly and gave me some relief.
Some women in your position might have been too afraid to get pregnant again. Did you ever feel that way?
No. Life had already taken so much from me; I wasn’t going to let fear take more. Eventually, I got pregnant again and gave birth to a beautiful daughter.
How old is your daughter now?
She just turned one. Pregnancy and delivery were smooth. I was extremely careful and researched hospitals, checking their facilities, and refusing to repeat the mistake of blind trust.
After losing your sight, what kinds of reactions did you get from people?
Some reactions were shocking. I remember applying for a job once, and the interviewer’s first words were, “Madam, go and fix your eyes.” That comment hurt deeply. But not everyone treated me that way; some people were compassionate, others indifferent. That balance helped me heal and reminded me that while some may judge, others will uplift and support you.
When everything happened, did you ever consider taking legal action against the hospital involved?
Honestly, I didn’t at the time. I was in so much physical and emotional pain that I didn’t have the strength to pursue justice. I just wanted to survive and put myself back together.
Looking back, I strongly believe that if such negligence happens to another woman, though I pray it never does, she should not stay silent. She should speak up, report the hospital to the appropriate authorities, and demand accountability. Raising her voice is important, not only for justice but to prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.
Reflections and Future Goals
What has been the most painful part of this journey?
Losing my eye and losing my son. Nothing compares to that pain. But the most surprising strength came from realizing that even when broken, I could rise. I could fight. I could still live.
Since moving to the UK, what has your experience been in terms of healthcare and opportunities?
The difference is striking. Here, I was able to get a job in the healthcare sector. My appearance wasn’t a barrier. The system is more structured, with resources for people with disabilities. It’s not perfect, but it shows what is possible when there is proper investment and care.
How has losing your sight reshaped your experience of motherhood?
It made motherhood more challenging but also more meaningful. I sometimes bump into things because I see with only one eye, and my appearance has changed; my eye drooped after surgery. But I’ve adapted. I focus on bonding with my children, teaching resilience, and showing that even in adversity, life continues.
Who stood by you the most during this time?
My husband. He is my angel. My family and in-laws also supported me, carrying me with love and reminding me I wasn’t alone.
What about friendships? Did this experience change them?
Yes. Pain reveals true friendship. Some people walked away, but others I least expected stepped up. It showed me who truly belongs in my life.
Beyond the physical loss, what else did you lose, and what did you discover about yourself?
I lost some independence and confidence. But I discovered courage, resilience, and a voice I didn’t know I had. I became an advocate, not just for myself, but for other women. My experience gave me a platform to raise awareness about preventable healthcare tragedies.
If you could speak to Nigerian health authorities, what would you say?
I would urge them to prioritize mothers. Train doctors properly, provide the right equipment, and treat every woman with dignity. No mother should lose her sight or child because of preventable mistakes.
Many women stay silent about their health struggles. What message do you have for them?
Speak up. Don’t let anyone dismiss your pain. Your voice and your health matter. Sharing your story might save another woman’s life.
Looking ahead, what are your dreams for yourself, children, and other women?
For myself, I dream of a purposeful life beyond the pain. For my children, I want them to have opportunities, love, and safety. For women, I dream of a world where pregnancy is a season of joy and security, not a gamble with life.
