Kaari Ruka Slade 8 Years Old - "The reality of Perthes Disease "

Our beautiful Kaari is 8 years old and lives in Onerahi Whangarei with Mum Marlene and big Sis Leesy. She was diagnosed with Perthes Disease 16 months ago, which is a rare childhood condition that affects the hip. The blood supply to the rounded head of the femur is temporarily disrupted and without the adequate blood supply , the bone cells die, the bone weakens and then degenerates over a period of time. There is a complex process of stages that can last several years , and there is constant issues with mobility and severe pain.

Kaari is currently in a stage that requires her to have both of her legs in an A frame cast , immobilizing her which is extremely challenging for Kaari and her family. The current phase of treatment for Kaari has resulted in her spending 2 weeks in traction in Whangarei Hospital , followed by a minimum of a further 6 weeks in the A frame cast which leaves her with little or no mobility and confined to bed requiring 24 hour care and assistance. Once the cast's come off we are not sure of what will happen next, it will depend on how the bone has set and how the regrowth of the hip goes. There is no doubt that this journey will be a long one that could last years.

It is challenging for any person to be confined to bed for an extended period of time and it is no different for Kaari and her family. No young child should have to endure this type of illness, it is simply cruel .

Kaari is handling the situation really well, she is a little soldier , displaying her beautiful smile at all times and carrying this illness with such grace. She hasn't been able to get out and about and do the normal activities of a young girl for over a year, she can't cycle her bike, or run in the park , or play tag with her friends, or enjoy playtime at the beach in the sand and the sea. Kaari has had lots of interrupted school time over the last number of months and has not been able to go to school as much as she would like . She misses her friends and is missing out on so much "normal" things.

Solo mum Marlene and Kaari's big sister Leesy (17) are by her bedside 24 hours a day , supporting and helping Kaari on this journey . This is such a challenging time for the family.

Kaari's mum Marlene has not been able to work at this time and has had to take a very extended break from her job, which is resulting in additional financial pressures.

We really would like to be able to relieve some of the financial pressure that the family are under during this very difficult and stressful time so that they can fully concentrate on providing the much needed care that Kaari requires .

We really and truly appreciate your support . Thank you