Larisa, 2 years old
Diagnosis – Congenital Immunodeficiency
Larisa is only 2 years old and has been under the care of Gift of Life since her earliest months. Diagnosed with a congenital immunodeficiency shortly after birth, she began a long and complex medical journey from the very beginning of her life.
Her condition was first identified through neonatal screening, which revealed serious abnormalities in her immune system. Further tests confirmed a T-cell deficiency, leaving her highly vulnerable to infections and requiring urgent, specialised care.
In April 2024, Larisa underwent a bone marrow transplant, the only curative treatment for her condition. The months that followed were extremely challenging. She experienced multiple complications, including infections, graft-versus-host disease, and prolonged periods of low immunity.
Throughout this time, Gift of Life supported Larisa with access to critical medications. In 2024, the charity funded treatments including Foscavir and Defitelio, helping her recover from complications after a bone marrow transplant. In February 2025, thanks to your support, Larisa received a full course of Dificlir (£3,134), an essential antibiotic used to treat a persistent C. difficile infection – a serious complication in children with weakened immunity.
Despite severe post-transplant complications, Larisa and her mum face each day together, continuing their fight against this serious condition with the help of ongoing treatment. She remained in hospital for an extended period, requiring complex care and close monitoring by her medical team.
Today, there is encouraging news. Larisa has been discharged from hospital and is now at home, continuing her recovery under medical supervision. After everything she has been through, this is an important and hopeful step forward.
Larisa’s journey is a powerful reminder of how complex and long recovery can be for children with serious conditions. With continued care, and thanks to your support, she now has the chance to grow, recover, and spend precious time where she belongs at home with her family.