January 22, 2009 - Mariana Bridi da Costa, 20 year old, who was a finalist in Miss Brazil World contest, has had her hands and feet amputated after contracting a severe urinary infection. She was sedated in a hospital in the southeastern state of Espirito Santo, and on artificial respiration following the procedures.

According to her boyfriend Thiago Simoes, she was initially misdiagnosed with kidney stones. The infection quickly spread, causing her to go back to hospital for tests that revealed her condition. Surgeons had to act to remove her damaged hands and feet.

Her father, Agnaldo da Costa, said that the concern is over his daughter's life.

Mariana has twice made it as finalist in the Miss Brazil World national pageant. Last year, she travelled to China to participate in the Miss Bikini International pageant where she finished 6th place and won Best in Swimsuit award.