The Elliott family were just starting their new life in Darwin in 2015, when they were dealt a crushing blow. 9-year-old Elizabeth, who was then 4, was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 2 in July that year and the family soon had to make regular flights to Sydney to meet with specialists. Since moving back to be closer to their medical team, the Glenmore Park family are now adjusting the best they can.
Elizabeth’s medical condition, Neurofibromatosis, is genetic and is characterised by the growth of benign tumours. Type 2 (NF2) is the development of these tumours on the nerves that control hearing and balance.
“When Libby was diagnosed, we had never heard of Neurofibromatosis before and madly went looking for articles and information. We were in complete shock” said Cameron Elliott, Elizabeth’s father.
“She has had three surgeries to remove tumours from her brain, spine and nasal cavity. It’s an endless cycle of waiting for the results of the latest MRI, finding out what has grown, then waiting for the next one. Because there is no cure, we are constantly watching these tumours and waiting for them to impact her. Most of the options for removal are surgical, which will usually damage nerves and cause a whole bundle of other problems” explained Cameron.
The local community recently got together to support Elizabeth, her parents Cameron and Jenni and younger sister Kaitlyn, at Plus Fitness Glenmore Park to promote Cupid’s Undie Run. Cupid’s Undie Run is an annual event that raises funds for the Children’s Tumour Foundation (CTF) and helps adults, children and families impacted by Neurofibromatosis (NF).
“Since 2017, we have taken part in Cupid’s Undie Run and Mega Hero March. Last year, with the support of Nepean Business Network, we held a Melbourne Cup Breakfast which raised much needed funds for the Children’s Tumour Foundation (CTF). To date, we have managed to raise over $150,000 for CTF” Cameron ended.
Visit www.ctf.org.au to learn more about Neurofibromatosis, and their yearly charity events and fundraisers. To support Elizabeth and her family’s Cupid’s Undie Run fundraising, go to https://www.cupidsundierun.com.au/my-fundraising/38/cam-elliott.