Marlborough Express - Weekend Express
Community support sends Georgina to US
In many ways, 6-year-old Georgina Allen’s story is Marlborough’s own.
Georgina needs two major surgeries to treat nerves in her spine if she is to walk by herself.
But the treatment is not available in New Zealand. It is, however, available in the United States.
As always, Marlborough has stepped up.
Georgina’s mum Siobhan says the family has been overwhelmed by the support they have received.
‘‘We have been absolutely shocked. We were hoping to raise just $20,000 towards the surgery costs, but we have now received around $80,000,’’ she says.
‘‘It has alleviated that burden, so now we can focus on being parents and providing Georgina with the emotional support she needs through her surgery and rehabilitation.’’
Georgina suffers from a rare form of cerebral palsy called spastic diplegia, and the surgery will help treat nerves in her spine.
Successful surgery at St Louis Children’s Hospital, in Missouri, in October will allow Georgina to walk independently. Siobhan says the family is hopeful and excited for her future.
‘‘It means she won’t be in a wheelchair all her life. We want her to grow up an independent person. We’ve seen the videos of other children after the surgery, it’s incredible what they can achieve.
‘‘We want Georgina to be able to go to university and make her own way in life. She said she wants to learn how to jump and run, and she loves singing and dancing.’’
The family will keep everyone interested in Georgina’s progress posted on social media. ‘‘We will be doing posts on Facebook from the US so people can see what they’ve helped to achieve for Georgina,’’ Siobhan said.
The Mazda Foundation also donated $2000 to the Allens.
‘‘We’re just so grateful to the Mazda Foundation and everyone who has donated so far,’’ Siobhan said.
A Devonshire Tea in the Garden will be held for Georgina at Tua Marina School this Sunday, October 1 from 11am to 3.30pm. For more information contact Glenda at (03) 574 1227 or email:bartmelchelsea@gmail.com. To follow Georgina’s progress in the US, visit facebook.com/ Georginasjourney/