A Nigerian woman, Damilola Balogun, who welcomed a baby about five months ago, has died in a United Kingdom hospital following a surgical procedure.
Her death was announced on Sunday by a member of the Nigerian community in the UK via a social media post. In response, a fundraising campaign was launched on Saturday to support her bereaved family. As of the time of reporting, the appeal had raised £3,506 from 245 donors toward a £5,500 target.
According to details shared in the appeal, Damilola passed away on January 1, 2026. She was described as a devoted wife, a loving mother, and the principal applicant for her family under a skilled worker visa. What should have been a joyful period after the birth of her child reportedly turned into a prolonged and painful medical ordeal.
The statement explained that Damilola initially sought medical help at Walsall Manor Hospital after experiencing severe migraines. She was treated and discharged, but returned three days later with the same symptoms and was again sent home after no cause was identified. Two weeks later, with the headaches persisting, she was admitted for further evaluation.
Doctors later administered antibiotics and conducted an MRI scan and a lumbar puncture, which revealed a buildup of fluid on her brain. She was urgently referred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, where she underwent surgery. The procedure was said to have been initially successful, raising hopes of recovery.
However, three days later, her condition deteriorated. She reportedly fell into a coma and was placed on life support. Despite medical intervention and prayers, doctors eventually confirmed that she could not recover. Life support was withdrawn on the morning of January 1, 2026.
The appeal described the timing of her death as especially devastating, noting that while many were welcoming the new year, her family was plunged into profound grief.
Damilola is survived by her husband, three children aged 11 years, 10 years, and five months, as well as her mother and grandmother. The statement noted that her husband had been unable to work throughout her hospitalisation as he remained by her side, leaving the family’s savings depleted. They are now faced with funeral expenses and the responsibility of raising three children without their mother.
Organisers of the fundraiser appealed for public support, stating that donations would help cover burial costs, provide immediate assistance for the children, and ease the financial strain on the family.
Meanwhile, tributes and condolences have continued to pour in from family members, friends, and members of the Nigerian community, with many expressing concern about healthcare experiences and urging greater awareness of personal health and financial preparedness.
Damilola Balogun’s death adds to a growing number of reported cases involving Nigerians in the UK who have collapsed or died while pursuing academic, professional, or family life abroad.
