Ealing Teen Needs Urgent Groundbreaking Spinal Surgery

Funding appeal to help teenage gymnast Leila undergo crucial operation

 
Participate

Sign up for our weekly Ealing newsletter

Comment on this story on the

An urgent funding appeal has been made to help an Ealing teenager who needs groundbreaking surgery for severe spinal scoliosis.

Leila Bennadi, 14, a scholarship student at St Benedict's, was born with an extensive birthmark affecting the left side of her face and much of the left of her body and limbs. Over the years she has had laser treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), focussing on reducing the extent of the birthmark on her face.

Her parents encouraged her to become involved in sport, to promote a healthy and positive body image and Leila, from Perivale, has become an elite gymnast at Heathrow gymnastic club. She has competed at both English and British championships.

However, in recent years concerns were raised about her delayed growth, prompting further investigations at GOSH. Last year Leila was diagnosed with severe spinal scoliosis.

In January 2019 her spine abnormality was measured at 68 degrees. Last month the rapid deterioration of her condition is indicating a measurement of 86 degrees.

In the UK the only surgical option available to her is for a complete spinal fusion which will impact negatively on her active lifestyle and mean that her spine will not continue to grow.

However, in the US and Europe a surgical alternative called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) is offered. This will allow for her spine to be straightened but most importantly allow it to grow more normally.



This option would allow Leila to both grow more normally but importantly for her to allow her to continue in the sport that she loves. VBT is going to be trialled in the UK from next year; but too late for Leila, as she will beyond the parameters to be considered a suitable candidate.

Family and friends have launch a fundraising campaign, in order to help Leila have this breakthrough surgery in Turkey.

Leila's Aunt, Angela Mawby says: '' The aim of this information is to ask for help in sharing Leila’s story. In addition, if your support group is able to consider supporting Leila’s treatment, then any contribution towards this urgent surgery would be much appreciated. Please feel free to share Leila’s story to anyone who you think who may be able to help. If you require any further information contact Denise at: d.bennadi@hotmail.co.uk ''

Read more and donate here

30 April 2019

 

Bookmark and Share