‘I want anyone in trouble to know that they are not alone in their fight’

#keepitcrossed. I just want to let my sister know that there is loads support out there for her but I also wanted to give people a way to show they were thinking of the people they love going through difficult times.

“Knowing that people are thinking of you when you’re in a difficult situation can mean a lot.

“I know how that feels and I have friends who go through difficult times with their families as well.

“I want #keepitcrossed to be a symbol for everyone to know they are not alone in their fight.”

Kaela has severe cerebral palsy, epilepsy, hydrocephalus and is blind.

The 11-year-old also recently developed scoliosis — an abnormal twisting and sideways curvature of the spine — which has been gradually getting worse.

Mum Claire said the surgery is the only way to stop her daughter from suffering pain on a daily basis.

But — due to the complexity of the surgery — the 39-year-old was told that there is a risk Kaela could lose her life. The mother-of-four said: “Kaela has had so many surgeries throughout her life and this one is the most important one. “If the surgery is successful she will be able to live a much better life which she deserves so much. “She has stared death in the face so many times before — she is a fighter. “Kaela is in so much pain right now that the surgery is the only way she can live a fuller and better life.” The operation will take place on November 28 at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh. Claire said: “I’m really proud of what Aayila has achieved. “It’s such a brilliant idea. “There are so many people out there who need the support of others to get through difficult times and having something like #keepitcrossed as a message of support can make a big difference. “When you are wanting to show your support through social media or by text it is difficult to put down what you want to say in writing. “The #keepitcrossed can help people get over this. “Whether it’s sending a picture of you crossing your fingers or wearing a crossed plait in your hair to the person, showing support can mean so much.”