On Friday 24th November, my 22nd year old niece Scarlet was taken into hospital (with the amazing help of her friend Maria) in Melbourne experiencing severe back pain. Over the past few days of numerous tests and results of a lumbar puncture have concluded she is suffering from two very rare bacterial infections that are affecting her spine and brain, one of which they are yet to fully determine.

She is being closely monitored on an hourly basis, and is being well looked after. The medical team at the hospital in Melbourne have been so incredible, and she is truly in the hands of a superb hospital and medical team. As I write this, her mum (Alethea) is with her, having got the quickest available flight from the UK the next day. Scarlet’s auntie from Auckland has also made her way across to be with her and provide support.

The past few days, and the days and weeks that will follow from here are are uncertain to say the least, but there is hope. Scarlet is on heavy pain medication but has shown signs of improvement over the past few days, and once further tests have concluded the 2nd cause of her current state, doctors and specialists will better informed to know how best to provide treatment going forward. All that being said, Scarlet and those close to her face a long road ahead, and her recovery is expected to take at least six months.

We’re raising money to assist with the inevitable everyday financial implications that are ahead of Scarlet and the family in order to provide the best support we can, without the concern of any financial burden. Any donation you are able to make will be greatly appreciated by the family, and will help towards flights for her mum to and from the UK, mobile phone data, accommodation near to the hospital, childcare (for Scarlets younger sister back home) and for Scarlets eventual rehabilitation. The family are already so incredibly grateful for the support that Scarlet has and is receiving from her friends and those known to her, which is testimony to her character and the likeable person she is.

We’ll continue to provide key updates on her situation via this page and Facebook as and when we are able to do so. Please share this page to help us reach everyone who is known to Scarlet, and to let her know just how loved and supported she is!