| "We thought it was a 24-hour tummy bug and
she d get over it," Mrs Newby said.
But Tallulah quickly became really sick.
While she was on a trip to the Gold Coast with her
Wilsonton Marching Band friends, something traumatic
happened in her body which triggered the disease.
Mrs Newby said the doctors thought she might have
Guillain BarrČ Syndrome as the symptoms were similar.
"It was a really big problem and a puzzle for the
doctors."
Even a form of arthritis was suspected and the family
tried hydrotherapy among other things.
She spent New Year in hospital and has had relapses and
reactions to treatment.
"Nothing has gone to according to plan," Mrs Newby said.
"But we hope to have her home for Christmas." Her family has
had to carry and lift Tallulah and help feed her as the
disease has set in.
The disease is attacking her nervous system, so she was
laid up while others received gifts at the annual Golden
Casket Variety Special Children s Christmas Party at the
showgrounds on Sunday.
When Toowoomba Hospital Foundation executive director
Peter Rookas heard about Tallulah's plight, he contacted
event co-ordinator Robin Ayres, who hand-delivered some
gifts to the delighted girl yesterday.
"You missed out on the party, Mr Rookas said.
"I hope this cheers you for Christmas and helps you on
the road to recovery." Mrs Ayres presented Tallulah with
"girlie stuff " - a fluffy toy, cosmetic case and tangle
lamp.
"Every girl needs a soft toy and the tangle lamp will
help with schoolwork or make-up."
Tallulah thought the presents were "cool" and has a
Christmas wish: "I want a furby that sings, dances and tells
jokes." And according to her mum, the visit was just what
the doctor ordered.
"She had been a bit down, crying, in tears and all that.
I knew it would make her day." |
