A young girl has spent the past three weeks in intensive care after being struck down by an ultra-rare supervirus.
Taylor Henry, 13, from Geelong in Victoria started vomiting repeatedly after coming down with the virus on January 22.
The basketball-loving teen described by family as ‘vibrant, happy and super energetic’ has since undergone multiple surgeries and remains in an induced coma.
A young girl (pictured) has spent the past three weeks in intensive care after being struck down by an ultra-rare supervirus
Taylor Henry (pictured in the ICU), 13, from Geelong in Victoria started vomiting repeatedly after coming down with the virus on January 22
The unknown virus caused an inflammation of the heart called myocarditis, and Taylor had needed three nine-hour open heart surgeries to repair the damage.
Despite the major operations, Taylor is still at risk from the virus which may attack other organs.
Taylor’s aunt Maryanne Cleasby has started a GoFundMe, as Taylor’s parents and four siblings may be forced to relocate closer to Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.
The teenager’s heart and lungs are still unable to work on their own, and she requires dialysis for her kidneys.
‘There is no magical cure for this virus and despite the best possible care, the constant tests, and endless surgeries, Taylor is still on life support and fighting everyday,’ said Ms Cleasby.
‘The road ahead for Taylor will require all her strength, courage and fight and there will be months and months of doctor appointments and rehabilitation.’
The basketball-loving teen (pictured) described by family as ‘vibrant, happy and super energetic’ has since undergone multiple surgeries and remains in an induced coma
Doctors are struggling to stay on top of the virus, and Taylor may need a heart transplant if she is able to survive long enough, The Herald Sun reported.
Aunt Judy Frischot said Taylor’s family are in shock at how much damage the virus has done.
‘She’s an angel. She’s so helpful, and super fit. She’s a really great kid,’ said Ms Frischot.
‘In the holidays she had a month pass to [trampoline park] Aerodrome. She was there every day. She loves arts and she plays basketball.’
‘Her parents are just a mess … There have been times when she’s been flatlined and doctors have had to shock her back to life.’
Taylor’s friends have also started raising funds to help her, and one classmate has organised a Team Taylor day with a raffle.
People will wear purple – one of Taylor’s favourite colours – in support during the March 6 event.
The GoFundMe page is called PrayForTaylor and has raised almost $5,000 so far out of a $10,000 goal.
The unknown virus caused an inflammation of the heart called myocarditis, and Taylor had needed three nine-hour open heart surgeries to repair the damage (pictured is Taylor’s family)