A Leitrim family is calling for public support to help their daughter to access life changing surgery.
13 year old Rachel Mallon from Bornacoola was diagnosed with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis in February.
She was told by Irish doctors that she would need major spinal fusion surgery that would result in her being unable to bend her back for the rest of her life.
On seeking a second opinion her parents Brian and Edel discovered a new spinal correction surgery technique available in London that would still allow her movement.
However, due to the quick progression of the 13 year olds condition, the cost of the procedure has increased significantly.
Speaking to the Joe Finnegan Show today, The family say they have covered the majority of the cost but have launched a Go Fund Me campaign to bridge the gap.
According to Rachel's father, the condition is having very serious physical impacts on her.
''Sarah, she's an amazing young girl. Physically, it has taken its toll on her as the curves have progressed. So, Rachel has been out of school for the last five weeks and primarily siting very painful for long periods particularly in the classroom situation. Also, her breathing is affected because as the curves gets more severe they start to impact on her lungs. So she spending all her time now probably two to three hours a day doing these very specific exercises to keep flexibility in her spine for the surgery.''
