Celina Klinger Evans, a 29-year-old mother from Ontario, went into labor on a January Friday, welcoming baby Isaiah, a little brother to her four-year-old twin daughters. Just two days later, she tragically passed away due to complications from a rare but aggressive bacterial infection.
Her family was informed that the cause of death was Group A Strep Sepsis, a condition that can spread rapidly and become fatal. “It was just a wildfire in her body once she had the C-section surgery, and she took a quick downturn within 24 hours,” said her father, Markus Klinger. The coroner’s final report is expected in two to three months, but officials have already confirmed the deadly infection as the cause.
Invasive Group A strep infections have been rising in Canada post-pandemic, with experts warning of their devastating impact despite their rarity. “These infections are still rare but they’re devastating when they happen,” said John McCormick, a microbiology and immunology professor at Western University.
Celina, the second oldest of eight siblings, had a deep love for music and was an active member of her church choir. A graduate of Clarke Road Secondary School and Western University with a degree in environmental science, she was remembered by her husband, William Evans, as an incredible mother. “She not only stepped up to the plate, she did it with grace,” he said. “It’s the hardest job there is, and she nailed it.”
There are conflicting reports about whether Celina was already sick before going to the hospital. Her father mentioned she had a fever and an elevated white blood cell count, while her husband stated she was feeling fine. Regardless, Group A Strep is known to be highly aggressive and can progress rapidly even with antibiotic treatment.
As Evans adjusts to life as a single father to three children, fundraisers have been set up to support the family. Meanwhile, Celina’s parents are advocating for more awareness about invasive Strep A infections and the severe consequences they can have. “I encourage Londoners to better educate themselves about Streptococcus A. These bacteria are out there, and things can take a really bad turn,” said Markus Klinger.
Canada’s maternal mortality rate has risen from nine to 11 deaths per 100,000 births over the past two decades, according to the World Health Organization. The London Health Sciences Centre, where Celina gave birth and later died, extended condolences to her loved ones. “Our thoughts are with her family and with all who will feel this heartbreaking loss,” hospital officials said.
Source: Swifteradio.com
