Help support Legal Costs for my niece Noella

On November 6th 2019, my niece Noella started to complain of shortness of breath and difficulty breathing while at a medical appointment with her father. Noella fell to the floor where (thankfully) trained staff was available to provide CPR until EMS arrived. She was subsequently taken to Windsor Regional Hospital (WRH), where she was intubated, remained unconscious and began posturing. An MRI revealed a spot on her pituitary gland, later it would be discovered the thalamus had received far greater damage. She was then sent to London Health Science's Centre-Victoria Hospital for further treatment, as Windsor was not equipped to perform the tests needed.

She remained unconscious and sedated for 4 days in London, as they performed numerous tests but unfortunately they couldn't figure out what was wrong. Her medical team informed my brother that her working diagnosis as "Autoimmune Encephalitis". However, they were not really sure what was wrong with her. UPDATE: Anti TPO autoimmune encephalitis is the diagnosis.

Her medical team told us they see approximately 12 cases similar to Noella's every year, however she is the slowest to show any improvement.

Noella has been through a magnitude of tests, procedures and medications, many have caused horrible side effects. They implanted a port for ease of access and to infuse her numerous IV medications, including IVIG's, plasma exchange (x7 times and counting), and steroid infusions (to name a few). Which ultimately lead to bacterial complications, requiring a extended amount of time to her hospital stay.

Noella continues to remain in the hospital in London, where her medical team say she may be in the hospital for many months. Unfortunately this has put a lot of stress on my brother and his family, including financially. My brother being the sole bread winner has been off work for over a month now. While his significant other works a part time job and travels between Windsor and London to aid in Noella's recovery and provide care.

But after discussing starting a fundraiser with my brother to help ease some of his stress, he was agreeable for me to start one.

So I am reaching out and asking for help to support my brother and his family during this difficult time. Especially during this time of year, as Noella will need intensive therapy for many months as she relearns to walk, talk and basic functions such as eating. Noella is unable to speak, walk or talk and is confined to bed. My brother and family including his 9 year old daughter, will be in hospital with her over Christmas and New Years. Displaced from thier homes and jobs, all forced to celebrate Christmas and news years in a hospital!

Noella is not expected to be released until February, where she will need to be placed in a brain injury rehabilitation center for 2 to 6 month to have a better chance at a fuller recovery. The cost of which will not be affordable without support.

Please note, that anyone wishing to donate or support the family directly can email me at [email redacted].

Thank you,

Belinda & family