(Note from Erin: Our hearts go out to the family and friends Layla Lynn Thomas.)
At the end of April, 3-year-old Layla Lynn Thomas, of Belleville, IL, who had moved people throughout the region to cry, pray, donate and share support on social media, died.
On March 18th, Layla was diagnosed as having a low-grade fever and was recommended over-the-counter medications. Later that afternoon, Layla’s mother, Victoria Aubuschon, found her unresponsive. Layla was eventually transferred to St. Louis Children’s Hospital where she tested positive for influenza A. Her temperature had escalated to107 degrees.
“She had been unresponsive for five weeks at St. Louis Children’s Hospital after suffering brain damage from a a rare, flu-related disease called necrotic encephalitis. The family called in hospice last week, and Layla died Tuesday afternoon.
Necrotic encephalitis, also known as necrotizing encephalopathy, is a rare disease characterized by brain damage that often follows viral infections, according to the National Institutes of Health. It’s caused by both genetic and environmental factors.”1
Jessica Kile, who is engaged to Layla’s uncle, acknowledged that Layla’s case has made a big impact on the community:
“A couple of my friends have told me that they are complete germaphobes now. And I’m like, well, we didn’t mean to scare people, but we wanted to raise awareness and let people know how important it is to get a flu shot and take other precautions. Of course, Layla got her flu shot, which makes it hard to understand.”1
A GoFundMe campaign called “Prayers for Layla” has gone viral on social media and continues to move closer to the goal of $18,000 to cover medical bills not covered by health insurance, and now funeral expenses. In addition, memorials can be made to St. Louis Children’s Hospital. 🙁
“Layla was loved by everyone and was the life of the room when she walked in,” reads the obituary. “She loved animals and according to Layla, she was ‘not a princess.’ She will be missed by everyone who knew her.”1
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