A Glasgow schoolgirl who survived strep A pneumonia, is putting her strength to the test and raising awareness and funds for the hospital that saved her.
Little Eira, from Shawlands, contracted the potentially deadly condition earlier this year, and progressed to empyema - which meant fluid filled her lungs. Her terrified mum Zahra Talakshi, watched on as her daughter worsened and had to have drains inserted into her chest for five days before she thankfully, made a full recovery.
The seven-year-old was in hospital for two weeks and off school for several more in late January, and by May she challenged herself and tested her lung capacity by attempting 100 Mile May in aid of Glasgow Children's Hospital and Save the Children.
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Due to weakness Eira set a target of 50 miles, however, smashed well over her goal and completed 165 miles between herself and her proud mum, raising around £1,500 for their chosen charities.
Eira decided to raise funds for Glasgow's Children's Hospital after they aided her to full health and made her time in hospital that little bit better. Money will be going towards the Save the Children's Pneumonia Fund - after realising pneumonia is the biggest child killer in the world, Zahra felt incredibly lucky to have her daughter strong and healthy.
After the scare little Eira is now keeping very fit and active, enjoying activities like taekwondo, swimming and her school bike bus.
Zahra praised the NHS staff for their support and care: "She was so well supported at our GP practice initially, then the QEUH - A&E and each of the three wards we were in. There was never any doubt in my mind that she was in the best hands, with world-class treatment and a whole lot of love and care.
"I've always felt lucky to have a National Health Service, but never more so than when I learned that pneumonia is actually the leading cause of death in under fives globally and one person dies from it every 13 seconds."
Zahra, who works for a charity, said how proud she was of her daughter and discussed the idea of fundraising while wee Eira lay in hospital: "Eira and I talked about fundraising while she was in hospital and I'm delighted to share that she's back to swimming, bike bus and taekwondo!"
Their fundraiser page reads: "To show our thanks we are going to be doing some fundraising (and contributing a few of our own pennies!) for the Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity (because they looked after us so well) and Save the Children's Pneumonia Fund (because not everyone is so lucky).
"We are doing 100 Mile May. I'll be running/walking/cycling 100 miles this month and Eira is aiming for 50.
"I know times are hard so there is no obligation, but if you are able to support us financially our charities would be very grateful. Or, you can support us in person! Each weekend this month we'll be doing a 5 mile (both of us) and a 10 mile (me) activity and if you'd like to join us just let me know."
Eira's fundraising page is open until the end of the month, if you wish to donate please visit here.
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