Natalia Lewandowska, the vicemiss of Warmia and Mazury, is currently fighting for her life in an intensive care unit (ICU) after being diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disorder known as Guillain-Barré syndrome. The 27-year-old resident of Olsztyn, who captured the title of vicemiss in 2019, has seen her life turn upside down in a matter of days.
Just a few weeks ago, Lewandowska was enjoying her life as a mother to her 4-year-old son, but that changed dramatically at the end of February 2025. Initially, she experienced mild symptoms that she attributed to the flu, including muscle aches, photophobia, and back pain. However, as the symptoms worsened, she decided to seek medical attention.
On February 28, while on her way to the hospital, Lewandowska collapsed on the street. Her mother, Barbara, recalled that in the days leading up to her collapse, Natalia had been feeling increasingly unwell. "She was experiencing severe pain in her back and legs, and after three days of suffering, she finally decided to go to the doctor," Barbara told the media.
Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors quickly diagnosed her with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to inflammation and damage. Dr. Stanisław Szlufik, a neurologist, explained that this syndrome affects approximately 1-2 individuals per 100,000 people and can be triggered by various infections, including those resembling flu symptoms.
"The disease often starts with weakness in the legs or arms and can progress rapidly, leading to severe complications, including difficulty breathing," Dr. Szlufik noted. Unfortunately for Lewandowska, her condition deteriorated quickly. After a few days in the neurology department, she suffered a seizure and had to be transferred to the ICU, where she was intubated and placed on a ventilator.
As of now, Lewandowska is not breathing on her own. Her mother shared the heartbreaking reality: "Natalia cannot move her legs or most of her arms. She is having trouble swallowing and cannot eat. She tries to speak, but her movements are so slight that it's hard to hear her words." Currently, she is undergoing immunoglobulin treatment, which is crucial for her recovery, but improvements have been slow.
Guillain-Barré syndrome requires timely diagnosis and treatment to mitigate its effects. The treatment options include administering immunoglobulins over five days or performing plasma exchange therapy, which can take several cycles to show results. Dr. Szlufik emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating, "If a patient does not respond within a few days, their condition can become critical. Most patients gradually recover, but the timeline can vary from weeks to months, and some may face permanent neurological issues."
In light of her dire situation, Lewandowska's family has initiated a fundraising campaign to cover her medical expenses and rehabilitation, which could amount to 100,000 PLN. As of now, they have managed to raise about a quarter of the required amount. The fundraiser's description poignantly captures the gravity of her condition, stating, "Natalia is a beautiful, young woman who was healthy until recently. Now, she is fighting for her life, and we need your help."
The community has rallied around Lewandowska, with many expressing their support and sharing her story on social media. The situation has sparked conversations about the importance of recognizing the early signs of Guillain-Barré syndrome, which can often be mistaken for less serious ailments.
As the days go by, Lewandowska's family remains hopeful for her recovery, although the uncertainty looms large. "We are waiting for her condition to stabilize and for the treatment to take effect. The most crucial thing now is time," her mother said, echoing the sentiments of many who have faced similar battles against this unpredictable disease.
In a world where health can change in an instant, Natalia Lewandowska's story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit. As her community continues to support her through this challenging time, many hope for a positive outcome and a return to the vibrant life she once led.
