A UK-based Nigerian woman, Damilola Balogun, has died following a short but serious illness, her family has confirmed. She passed away on 1 January 2026, leaving behind her husband and three children.

Mrs Balogun, who was the main applicant for her family under the UK Skilled Worker #visa route, had given birth to her youngest child just five months earlier. According to the family, she later began experiencing persistent and severe migraines, prompting multiple visits to hospital.

She was first treated and discharged at Walsall Manor Hospital, before returning three days later with similar symptoms. No underlying cause was identified at the time, and she was discharged again. Two weeks later, with symptoms continuing, she was admitted for further investigations, including antibiotic treatment, an MRI scan and a lumbar puncture.

Subsequent results revealed a build-up of fluid on her brain. She was urgently transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, where surgery was carried out. The operation was initially reported to be successful.

However, three days later, Mrs Balogun fell into a coma and was placed on life support. Despite medical intervention, doctors later confirmed that recovery was not possible. Life support was withdrawn on the morning of 1 January 2026.

Mrs Balogun is survived by her three children aged 11, 10 and five months, her husband, her mother and her grandmother.

During her hospitalisation, her husband remained by her side and was unable to work. The family says their savings have since been depleted, and they are now facing funeral expenses alongside the ongoing care of their children.

A GoFundMe appeal has been launched to help support the family with funeral costs and immediate living expenses.
Fundraising link: gofund.me/a9b994ec2