Ketia Moponda’s life changed forever just over a week after starting university. The 20-year-old marketing and advertising student at De Montfort University in Leicester initially thought she had caught freshers' flu — a common illness among new students. But her condition rapidly worsened, and she was soon diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia, a form of bacterial meningitis that led to sepsis.
Ketia’s illness was severe: she lost all ten fingers and both legs below the knee due to the damage caused by the infection. Her experience highlights the urgent need for better awareness and vaccination programs for students, especially in light of a recent meningitis outbreak in Kent that claimed the lives of two people, including a university student.
Speaking about her ordeal, Ketia emphasized that “lessons haven’t been learned.” She called on universities and the government to use social media and relatable campaigns to educate young people on the rapid progression and dangers of meningitis. “Meningitis progresses very, very quickly. It’s a matter of seconds between life and death,” she said.
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Ketia reflected on how drastically her life has changed. “I planned to travel the world and pursue a career, but my life is completely different from how I imagined it,” she explained. Despite these challenges, she remains determined to reclaim her independence and pursue her dreams, including a career in modeling.
Her symptoms began with a cough on 25 September 2024, which rapidly escalated to unconsciousness. After being rushed to Leicester Royal Infirmary, she spent days in a coma and weeks in intensive care. The infection caused severe tissue damage, resulting in amputations in January 2025. She also battled a secondary flesh-eating infection requiring further surgery.
Ketia spent five months in hospital and barely survived, with doctors warning her family she might wake brain dead. Yet, after intense rehabilitation and with the help of prosthetic legs, she is now walking unaided and working toward regaining her previous active lifestyle.
Ketia’s story serves as a powerful warning: “If you think you have a cold but suddenly feel faint or unable to do simple tasks, get help immediately. It’s not worth risking your life.” She also stresses the responsibility universities have to protect students during their first time away from home.
Despite her dramatic experience, Ketia remains hopeful and defiant. “You don’t have to hide who you are. This doesn’t make me less of a person. I am unapologetically me and want to help others feel confident about themselves. I plan to break all the barriers of disability.”