[Meiko]

I have a problem... I was playing for the second time in the forest near Silent Hill. I left Eileen behind because I was low on medical kits and nutrition drinks and couldn't take care of her while fighting against monsters and psychos. I defeated Jasper's ghost with the sword and then came back to her to bring her with me before completing the collecting of the doll parts. But... I noticed she looked awful: she was covered in blood and had new scars all over her body, and after few minutes she became a ghost as well! I was wondering... is that because I left her behind or is it part of the main plot? I got the impression this could be avoided by bringing Eileen always with you during the whole time, but I really couldn't! Do I have to play that part of the game again or not to avoid this?