Pune: A 22-year-old medical student from Sangli has overcame a life-threatening battle with FIRES (Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome), a rare and severe neurological disorder.

A few weeks ago, this vibrant young woman, also a passionate Kathak dancer, experienced up to 40 epileptic seizures daily.

Initially unresponsive to treatment and placed on a ventilator, her condition seemed dire. She was put on a ventilator at a hospital in Pune. Her condition was very serious, and it was unclear if she would get better.

The ordeal began with a viral infection at home, something as common as the flu or a cold. However, when she started having convulsions that couldn't be controlled at the earlier city hospital, her family made a decisive move to transfer her to Sahyadri Hospitals, Nagar Road.

She was admitted to the Neuro ICU under the expert care of Dr. Nasli R. Ichaporia, Director of Neurology. The diagnosis was FIRES (Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome).

She was treated with immunoglobulin, high-dose anticonvulsants, and anesthetic agents to stop the seizures. She required high-density neuro ICU treatment and was admitted for about four weeks. Now, she is on follow-up care with Dr. Ichaporia.

"Over time, her condition stabilized; the seizures came under control, and she slowly emerged from unconsciousness. With the ventilator removed, she began to reclaim her life, walking and eventually dancing once again,” Dr. Ichaporia added.

“This experience has been life-changing,” she shares. “Not only has it reinforced my desire to become a doctor, but it has also deepened my appreciation for every moment and every step I take—whether in a hospital ward or on the dance floor.”