Laila moves from strength to strength

You may recall meeting Laila in our Christmas Appeal last year.  

When Laila was born, her parents, Sally and Ryan, were told she might never walk, talk or swallow. But Sally held onto one small sign of hope: if Laila couldn’t swallow, how was she managing to breastfeed? 

That hope sparked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Partnering with Novita therapists from infancy, Laila has received early intervention, physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy, hydrotherapy and countless hours of support.  

This year, Laila has reached another exciting milestone, starting high school at Xavier College. 

“She has had a really positive start to the year and has settled into this new chapter well,” Sally says. 

Laila continues to receive support through Novita, including physiotherapy and speech therapy. These services remain an important part of supporting her to build her independence, communication and participation in everyday life. 

For Sally, seeing how far Laila has come is a powerful reminder of what early support and the right team around a child can make possible. 

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated to Novita after reading Laila’s story,” Sally said. 

“It means so much to know that people connected with her journey and chose to support Novita and the services they provide to children and families. 

“Thank you - your generosity genuinely makes a difference.”