After numerous doctor check-ups the fight to raise money for Lonehill resident Layla O’Neill’s medical costs continues.
The six-year-old was diagnosed three years ago with ependymoma, a cancerous tumour, and is in need of medical care.
Layla’s mom Sharyn O’Neill said, “Firstly her splints are now too small for her and causing her little legs to spasm … so she needs a new set as she has grown in the past year, with this said… [doctors] have suggested a standing frame too. This will straighten her out and stretch her tendons and body.”
Read: Raising hope for Layla
Sharyn added that Layla’s spine was also not doing that great, “Her spine has curved so much that the doctors want to change and upgrade a few things. She has a higher chance of snapping [breaking her back] now, so she needs to get a back brace and a new wheelchair.”
Sharyn explained that, unfortunately, both procedures were not covered by medical aid and getting the procedures done would cost between R140 000 to R150 000.
O’Neill broke down the costs as follows: Wheelchair, around R60 000; back brace, R48 000; the standing frame could cost anything from R10 000 to R20 000; and the new splints could cost around R20 000, if not more.
“We need between R140 000 to R150 000 by next week. If you could find it in your heart to help us reach this goal we would really appreciate it,” Sharyn said.
Read: An amazing transformation
The O’Neill family has organised a fundraiser which will be held at Randpark Golf Club alongside the Coverall Insurance Annual Charity Golf Day for Ependy Angels.
If you would like to support Layla, you can attend the dinner and auction on 20 July which will cost R150 per person.
Golf enthusiasts can also play a game of golf – a four-ball will cost R3 200, and to sponsor a hole will be R1 200. A hole sponsor and four-ball will cost R4 200.
Details: Diane 0824580527; diane@pelepele.co.za for bookings.
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Releasing butterflies as a symbol of hope in support of Ependymoma Day
