Eva’s Journey: Overcoming Challenges with Resilience and Independence 

We interviewed Eva’s mum and carer, Vikki, who shared the incredible story of her daughter’s resilience and determination. As clients of GMobility, Eva and Vikki have allowed us to witness and support their inspiring journey. Born at 35 weeks in March 2020, just as Victoria entered its first COVID lockdown, Eva’s life has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. At a 20-week ultrasound, her parents learned she had hydrocephalus, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the brain, causing pressure, and myelomeningocele spina bifida, a severe form of spina bifida where the spinal cord and nerves develop outside the body. This discovery led to a referral to Monash Children’s Hospital. On Christmas Eve, Eva’s family received the official diagnoses, marking the beginning of a unique and courageous journey. 

At just 19 hours old, Eva underwent her first surgery to close the lesion on her back. By her third day, she had another surgery to place a shunt in her brain to drain excess fluid caused by the hydrocephalus. After three weeks in the NICU, Eva was able to come home, meet her three older siblings, and start her journey surrounded by family. Reflecting on the last few years, her mother, Vikki, shares, “Her ability to adapt to any situation and take it in her stride has made this roller-coaster journey a little easier.” 

Finding Independence in a New Wheelchair 

With each new stage of development, Eva has shown incredible resilience and adaptability. Recently, her Kidevo Mini T manual wheelchair has opened new worlds of independence and joy. “It has given her so much more independence,” says Vikki. “She loves being able to move around on her own and proudly shows off her mermaid wheels to everyone.”  the wheelchair has been essential in maintaining her mobility, as she cannot currently wear her Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs) due to requiring further surgeries. Eva’s wheelchair is only one important part of her mobility journey.  

Building Awareness through Social Media 

When Eva turned one, Vikki decided to start an Instagram page to document Eva’s journey with spina bifida and raise awareness about her diagnoses. “I wanted to help people understand spina bifida and hydrocephalus,” she explains. Through the platform, Vikki shares Eva’s story—highlighting both the challenges and achievements—in the hope of offering support and connection to families facing similar situations. 

Using mobility aids can be an intimidating experience for a child trying to navigate the world, but increased representation in the mainstream market can help make this transition easier. Eva received a Barbie in a wheelchair along with her own wheelchair, which her mum shared on Instagram, noting how excited Eva was to bring it to kindergarten to show her teachers and friends. Eva’s determination to get out and explore the world in her own way continues to inspire everyone around her. 

Navigating COVID-19 Restrictions 

The challenges Eva and her family have faced extend beyond her medical conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic created barriers that made accessing healthcare and therapies difficult. “Our main challenges didn’t come from Eva’s diagnosis, but from the restrictions that came with COVID and the forever-changing rules,” Vikki explains. “Not being able to access face-to-face doctors or therapies really set us back.” 

Eva’s bilateral club feet, which required surgery in 2022, remain an ongoing challenge. While the initial surgery helped, her feet began to revert to their original position after 18 months. Delays in the healthcare system have kept Eva on the waitlist for additional surgeries since early 2024. Despite these setbacks, her physiotherapist and occupational therapist have been invaluable, helping her develop independence and supporting her progress. 

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Eva 

Despite the hurdles, Eva’s outlook is positive. Once she receives the surgeries she needs, her future could include becoming a part-time wheelchair user. “She may be able to use other mobility devices like her four-wheel walker or even crutches as she gets older,” Vikki shares. With some assistance, Eva has the physical capability to walk, and her family looks forward to exploring new possibilities for her mobility. 

Advice to Other Families on a Similar Journey 

Reflecting on Eva’s journey, Vikki offers advice to other families facing a similar diagnosis. “It was HARD as parents, especially with three other children,” she admits. “We were given worst-case scenarios, but finding support groups on Facebook helped us understand what to expect. Hearing from other families made all the difference.” For Vikki, these connections have been crucial, providing perspective, guidance, and community. 

Spreading Light and Hope 

Eva’s story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit. She lights up every room she enters, bringing joy and inspiration to those around her. “She is the most determined and resilient child we’ve ever known,” Vikki says proudly. As they look to the future, Eva’s family is filled with hope and anticipation. “We can’t wait to see what goals she achieves next.” 

Eva’s journey is just beginning, and her family is eager to see her continue to thrive. “We are incredibly proud of everything she has accomplished so far. Eva’s determination will carry her through any challenge, and we’re excited to see the next chapter of her life unfold.” 

At GMobility, we’re honoured to have supported Eva and her family on their journey. Stories like Eva’s remind us why we’re so passionate about helping children and families in our community with their mobility needs. We look forward to continuing to support Eva and others like her as they pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.