Candice Davis Shares Her Journey Through HELLP Syndrome Complications

Candice Davis’s first pregnancy was uncomplicated, with clear checkups and minimal symptoms until June 14, 2025. Eleven days before her due date, Davis felt nauseous, which soon escalated to upper abdominal pain. Her husband urged her to visit the hospital, a suggestion she initially resisted. However, her friend, Dr. Susan Passarella, convinced her to go to the emergency room.

At Baptist Hospital’s obstetric emergency department in Pensacola, Florida, tests showed elevated blood pressure. Davis was kept overnight, but her pain intensified and her liver enzymes increased significantly. Within two hours, doctors decided to induce labor. Though she hoped to give birth naturally, her condition necessitated a cesarean section due to worsening symptoms.

Candice Davis and her husband during a maternity shoot. Anna Carolyn Photography

Davis was diagnosed with HELLP syndrome, a rare condition related to preeclampsia affecting the liver and potentially causing severe bleeding. HELLP syndrome develops in only 0.01% to 0.06% of pregnancies. Patients generally improve after delivery, which was true in Davis’s case as her baby was safely delivered via C-section. However, her liver began bleeding due to pressure from a liver injury.

The surgical team, prepared for complications, had to quickly act as Davis’s condition worsened. Anesthesiologists intervened when bleeding intensified. Though her medical team was ready, Davis was too unstable for further surgery, and doctors had to pause to let her recover some strength overnight.

After 24 hours, Davis stabilized enough to stop the bleeding and breathe on her own. Her earliest memory of the experience was from two days later when her son was placed on her chest. His presence helped lower her blood pressure.

Davis faced further challenges as blood clots formed in her left hand; she couldn’t use blood thinners, risking further liver complications. Despite multiple treatments, Davis lost her thumb and parts of her other fingers on her left hand. She underwent six surgeries and intensive therapy to regain functionality in her hand.

Learning to care for a newborn with these adaptations was challenging, despite her family’s support. Expectations for her recovery differed drastically from reality, as she required help for basic tasks like changing her son’s diaper and feeding him.

Candice Davis leaves the hospital with her son and husband. Candice Davis

One year later, Davis and her family have adjusted to a new normal. She has made a swift recovery, surprising her therapy team by regaining independence quicker than anticipated. Adaptive tools like a prosthetic thumb have facilitated her work and hobbies, including physical activities. The family recently enjoyed a relaxing summer at the beach.

Candice Davis with her husband and son. Candice Davis

Davis advises pregnant women to trust their instincts and seek medical advice if something feels off. She advocates for awareness and timely medical intervention to address concerning symptoms.