Aroha for Lungi

On Thursday the 8th of July, our beloved sister, friend, aunty, mother and recent grandmother Patrica O’Carroll - Leota, aka Lungi was transferred from Taranaki Base to Christchurch Hospital to undergo spinal surgery.

Over the past 7 weeks Lungi’s health had deteriorated from walking around relatively normally to suffering terrible pain, numbness and weakness in the lower half of her body to the point where she could no longer walk.

Lungi was diagnosed with Degenerative Spinal Stenosis which is the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal caused by overgrown ligaments and arthritic bone in the spine. This results in the compression of the spinal cord and neurological dysfunction.

Essentially it means the spinal cord is being “choked” and causes a whole host of problems for the sufferer. She has been classed as an incomplete paraplegic.

While surgery went well, the doctors have said to expect a very long road to recovery and possibly more surgery. This unexpected life event has fundamentally changed her life and the ones who love her.

Lungi, has the biggest heart, fiercely protective and incredibly loyal. Her vibrant energy is infectious, and is dearly loved by the community of Waitara and beyond.

We’ve started a givealittle page to support Lungi and her whānau financially as they navigate through this incredibly difficult time and would love your support.

We love you sis and are here for you and your whānau - Mo ake tonu atu.

Many thanks in advance whānau.