Lilyrose's bright future: made possible by you
Feel Good Friday with Children First Foundation!
Children First Foundation helps children like Lilyrose from developing countries to access vital medical care unavailable in their home country, either at home in Australia
I have some wonderful news to share with you: thanks to your generosity, Lilyrose is now home in Vanuatu with a bright and healthy future ahead of her.
Five-year-old Lilyrose travelled to Adelaide with her mum, Janeth, to receive specialist care from renowned craniofacial surgeon, Dr Mark Moore, and his team. She had been living with a swollen mass at the base of her skull that had gradually grown as she grew older and was beginning to affect her daily life.
Because of supporters like you, Lilyrose was able to access the expert assessment, treatment and surgery she urgently needed. Your kindness helped ensure she received care that simply wasn't available close to home.
Lilyrose and Janeth (left) / Clinical imagery of Lilyrose (right)
Despite the many appointments and tests that came with her treatment, Lilyrose approached every experience with remarkable courage and curiosity.
In fact, she was so calm and relaxed during her MRI scan that she fell asleep! It's a moment that left everyone smiling and perfectly captures how our team made her comfortable, and the brave and joyful spirit she carried throughout her journey.
Lilyrose, just before her MRI nap!
Between appointments and while preparing for surgery, Lilyrose brought happiness wherever she went. Her bright smile quickly became a favourite among hospital staff, volunteers and everyone fortunate enough to meet her.
Whether she was crafting, playing or simply sharing a laugh, she reminded us all why this work matters so much: every child deserves the chance to enjoy a healthy, happy childhood.
Lilyrose and Janeth out and about with CFF volunteers (left) / Lilyrose just after her surgery, having a meal (middle and right)
I am delighted to share that Lilyrose's surgery was a complete success.
Dr Mark Moore and his specialist team were able to remove the cyst entirely without complications. Lilyrose can now look forward to the future without the burden it placed on her health and wellbeing.
You can see the difference in her smile. While she remained positive throughout her treatment, there is now a new sense of freedom and confidence shining through.
Clinical photography of Lilyrose post-operation
After a period of rest and recovery, with love and care provided by her mum every step of the way, Lilyrose was cleared to return home to Vanuatu.
On their way back home, they proudly wore t shirts commemorating their arrival in Australia, which shows just how meaningful this journey has been to both Lilyrose and Janeth.
Lilyrose and Janeth greeted by our partner Madlen on arrival in Vanuatu (left) / Lilyrose at departures in Adelaide (middle) / Lilyrose and Janeth on arrival in Adelaide(right)
Today, Lilyrose is back with her family, and her future is brighter because of compassionate people like you: thank you for being part of her story.
Thank you for helping provide essential specialist medical care, comfort and hope to children who need it most.
Most importantly, thank you for giving Lilyrose the opportunity to simply be a child, with every reason to keep smiling.
For Lilyrose and Janeth, thank you.