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US Mom Dies in Kenya After Salmonella Infection
27 Jul
Summary
- Ayla Garcia, a mother of four, died from a Salmonella infection in Kenya.
- She contracted the illness believed to be from contaminated ice.
- Garcia had underlying sickle cell disease which complicated her treatment.

A Virginia mother of four, Ayla Garcia, has died in Kenya after contracting a severe foodborne illness. The 36-year-old was on a mission trip to support orphaned children when she suddenly fell ill.
Garcia was diagnosed with a Salmonella infection, which her family believes she acquired from consuming contaminated ice. The infection spread to her kidneys, liver, and blood, leading to critical complications.
Her pre-existing sickle cell disease, a condition affecting red blood cells, significantly complicated her treatment. She required multiple blood transfusions and dialysis due to kidney impairment and jaundice.
Despite initial signs of progress in her recovery, Garcia's condition worsened, and she passed away on July 24. Her family is currently arranging for her remains to be returned to the United States for a memorial service.
Friends and family have expressed their grief and shared tributes to Garcia, remembering her strength and dedication to helping others.