A 10-year-old schoolgirl from Southport has had both legs and her right arm amputated after contracting meningitis. Penelope Vidal-Walsh was rushed to Alder Hey Hospital after telling her parents she felt unwell on 10 April.
Her parents spotted a small purple rash on her knee, which did not disappear when pressed with a glass – a sign of possible meningitis. She was taken to Ormskirk Hospital and then transferred to Alder Hey, where the diagnosis was confirmed.
Penelope underwent a triple amputation surgery as part of her treatment. Her father, Ricardo Vidal, said she also suffered a rare fungal infection which caused severe complications. She is now preparing for skin graft surgery and using a wheelchair.
Ricardo described her as a 'determined' little girl who has spent 99 days fighting and recovering. He said: 'It's been a roller coaster of emotions, but we remain forever grateful that she is still with us.'
Her aunt, Angel Walsh, said the family want to raise awareness of meningitis symptoms. They hope Penelope will be discharged around October, depending on skin graft progress.
The family are fundraising to give Penelope the best chance of an independent life. Her father added: 'We want her to be able to not let this deter her from being the most energetic, fun, lively girl that she always has been.'
