Please Help Nancy Walk Again.

Hello,

On 29th of July, 4-year-old Nancy was taken to A&E/ER for a check-up. Her parents were concerned about symptoms of leg pains and weakness, chronic fatigue, and a noticeable low mood. They knew Nancy was unwell, but little did they know that 9 weeks later, she would still be in hospital.

After numerous tests including an MRI & and a lumbar puncture/spinal tap, Nancy was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Guillain-Barre Syndrome, something that rarely affects children.

Nancy's condition deteriorated, she lost the use of her legs and arms, developed facial palsy, and couldn't eat or speak properly. She was given IVIG Immunoglobulin - the first course of treatment for this syndrome, her parents were told that it was a long game of monitoring and waiting to see how Nancy responded to this treatment.

At first, Nancy's condition deteriorated, and she was moved from the UCH London to Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital ICU for close monitoring.

Nancy's condition eventually stabilised, but she was still unable to sit up or move unaided, so she was referred to a neuro rehabilitation ward at St. Thomas's Evelina Children's Hospital London, where Nancy fortunately got a bed to start intensive treatment. Nancy has been working very hard and she now has body mobility and can feed and dress herself, she has even begun to start taking some steps!

The teams at the 3 different hospitals who have supported Nancy have been incredible, and the family feels very fortunate that Nancy received such a level of care.

Full recovery may take up to a year and the family's main concern is the limited community care Nancy will receive after leaving hospital, she has a long way to go post discharge which is expected to be on October the 6th.

The reason for this fundraising is to facilitate Nancy’s ongoing recovery, this will take the form of a variety of therapies, including neuro physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and art therapy.

Nancy is looking forward to joining her friends who have already started reception class at school, but she does feel nervous about being in a wheelchair and not being able to keep up with her friends.

Thank you for taking the time to read Nancy’s story,

Nancy and her family will be forever grateful for any donations.