Science Vs

A Mystery in the Air

May 26, 2022
Rosamund Adu-Kissi-Debrah, a fierce clean air advocate and mother of Ella Kissi-Debrah, shares her heart-wrenching journey to uncover the mystery behind her daughter's death. She battles against systemic issues of air pollution and highlights its devastating effects on vulnerable communities. Listeners learn about Ella's rare condition and the shocking truths revealed during Rosamund's investigation. This powerful story not only personalizes the impacts of pollution but also ignites a call for urgent reforms to protect public health.
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ANECDOTE

Diagnostic Challenges

  • Doctors struggled to diagnose Ella, testing for cystic fibrosis and epilepsy.
  • Steroids, a common asthma treatment, proved ineffective, and her cough was atypical.
INSIGHT

Atypical Symptoms

  • Ella's cough syncope, typically seen in older men, was unusual for a child.
  • Her case defied typical asthma presentations, raising questions about the true nature of her illness.
ANECDOTE

Ella's Final Moments

  • On Valentine's Day 2013, Ella had a fatal asthma attack while listening to music.
  • The attack involved a coughing fit, seizure, and heart attack, leading to her death at 3 a.m.
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