In a very sad and emotional update that has touched thousands of people online, Ruth Wambui shared the news of the passing away of her daughter, Neillah Mirera, on 16th February. Neillah had been living with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare and severe form of the condition, for years beyond what the doctors had originally expected her to live.
Ruth has captured the very sad moment in a post to her followers:
“God gave Neillah to us on the 14th and He has taken her away on the 15th. My baby refused to wake up, guys…”
Diagnosed in early 2019 when she was only a few months old, Neillah’s prognosis was very poor. Doctors told Ruth that children with Type 1 SMA rarely survive past their first year of life, but she has beaten the odds at every turn. Born on Valentine’s Day and affectionately known as her mother’s “million-dollar baby,” Neillah has celebrated several birthdays, gone on road trips, experienced swimming, and brought light into every room, even the hospital room.
Ruth was Neillah’s strongest supporter throughout her life, recording her visits to the hospital, her use of the ventilator, her therapies, and the costs of caring for her at home. She organized fundraisers, communicated her monthly needs, and often spoke of her faith, encouraging her followers, “God has been faithful.”
Neillah’s life has inspired many parents and caregivers who have followed her story on social media. Tributes and condolences continue to flow in, a testament to the influence of a little girl whose life, though short, has made a lasting impact on the lives of many.
Ruth was Neillah’s strongest supporter throughout her life, recording her visits to the hospital, her use of the ventilator, her therapies, and the costs of caring for her at home. She organized fundraisers, communicated her monthly needs, and often spoke of her faith, encouraging her followers, “God has been faithful.”
Neillah’s life has inspired many parents and caregivers who have followed her story on social media. Tributes and condolences continue to flow in, a testament to the influence of a little girl whose life, though short, has made a lasting impact on the lives of many.
