Royal Children’s Hospital patient Tegan McConnachie, seven, is doing her bit for next week’s Good Friday Appeal.By Callan Date
MOST people don’t associate arthritis with a seven-year-old girl.
Although Narre Warren youngster Tegan McConnachie suffers from a juvenile version of the condition, she does not let it hold her back from enjoying the wonders of childhood.
The Hillsmeade Primary School student also suffers from an eye problem that will require her to have an operation next month.
Both these issues have forced Tegan, along with parents Kylie and Noel, to spend numerous hours in the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH).
Ms McConnachie said they had attended the hospital once a week when Tegan’s illness was at its worst.
“She is now in the children’s (hospital) every three weeks for a day visit,” she said.
“(The staff) are unbelievable. They are just fantastic and the children can’t get better care than what they’re getting there.”
Next week’s Good Friday Appeal is being eagerly anticipated by Tegan and her family.
Tegan has been saving her pocket money to contribute to the appeal and to give something back to the place that has helped her so much.
“She is saving up her money and we have decided we will match what she saves. We are trying to get family and friends involved as well.”
It is not known if Tegan will grow out of the arthritis, as some children who suffer the condition can, but the family is optimistic of a positive outcome.
“You need to just kind of wait and see.”
Tegan keeps active by playing netball at Hillsmeade Netball Club, swims weekly and also rides a motorbike.
“We explained it all to her and told her she can be a normal child if it is managed properly,” Ms McConnachie said.
To donate to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal phone 9292 1166 or go to www.goodfridayappeal.com.au website.
