Nationwide — Ayla Garcia, a 36-year-old African American mother of 4 from Richmond, Virginia, died after developing a severe Salmonella infection during a mission trip to Kenya. Her family said she contracted the illness from contaminated ice, and her sickle cell disease made the infection more difficult to overcome.
Garcia traveled to Kenya on July 1 with her church and family to support Zion Family, a home for orphaned children. She spent time helping the children and sharing moments from the trip, including encounters with wildlife, before she suddenly became ill.
Doctors later admitted Garcia to the ICU after the infection spread throughout her body. Her family said the Salmonella bacteria affected her kidneys, liver, and bloodstream, causing her condition to quickly worsen. She needed multiple blood transfusions because of dangerously low hemoglobin levels and later developed jaundice. She also required dialysis as doctors worked to treat the damage caused by the infection.
While hospitalized, Garcia shared a video on Instagram on July 19 to update her loved ones. In the video, she said she was still in Kenya and trying to recover so she could return home.
According to People, her family said Garcia’s sickle cell disease added more complications to her illness. The condition affects red blood cells and can increase the risk of serious health problems during infections.
Garcia’s mother, Patricia, said she was shocked by how quickly her daughter’s condition became severe. “It was surprising and very concerning that this thing had taken over so much that they had to put her in ICU,” Patricia said.
Garcia’s family initially shared updates saying she was making progress but still needed treatment before she could be released from the hospital. However, on July 24, they announced that Garcia had died after her battle with the infection and other health complications.
The family is now working to bring Garcia’s remains back to Virginia and arrange a memorial service. They remembered her as a devoted mother, family member and friend who brought kindness and encouragement to many people.
Garcia’s friend Zion Njeri shared a tribute honoring the mother of four, saying Garcia was like a sister who supported her through difficult times. Njeri said she was with Garcia during her hospital stay and witnessed her strength throughout her illness.
A GoFundMe campaign was set up initially while Garcia was still at the hospital to help cover her medical expenses. It has so far raised over $35,000 as her family now works to bring her home.