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Transplant setback for poorly Rachael

29/10/2008

POORLY Rachael Wakefield whose crippling lung disease was triggered by the family’s pet cockatiel has received a devastating setback — after she was refused a place on the transplant list.

The 20 year old, who is fighting for her life, met with consultants at Wythenshawe Hospital on Friday in a last-ditch plea for help.

Specialists are standing firm, insisting more must be done to unmask the root of her ills. They also claim she is not well enough to survive the procedure.

But Rachael, who was struck down by the mysterious disease at 13, said surgery is a risk she is willing to take.

She said: "My time is running out, I have no time to wait around. I need to get to America: it’s now or never."

The family need to raise £400,000 to pay for a transplant at the world’s leading lung clinic in North Carolina. So far locals have raised £10,000.

Rachael, of Rosewood Close, Dukinfield began suffering chronic breathing problems aged 13. After years of tests, the blame eventually fell on pet cockatiel Penni.

Specialists at a top London children’s hospital diagnosed hypersensitivity pneumonitis, more commonly known as ‘bird fancier’s lung’ caused by dust from the bird’s droppings. But other doctors have refused to give a definitive diagnosis.

Rachael was hooked up to oxygen 24-hours-a-day and underwent a course of chemotherapy in a bid to "wipe clean" her immune system.

Mum Lynnette, 41, said: " Even if she is put on the list now there is a four-year waiting list. It’ll be too late. Our only option is to raise the £400,000."

Rachael has set up a website where people can donate: www.breathingislife.com . The Woodman Inn pub in Oldham Road, Ashton has a charity gig this Saturday with a line-up of live acts from 8pm. Regular Anthony ‘golden locks’ Herod will also be shaving his head to help the poorly teen. And entertainers will take to the stage for Rachael at the Old Ball, Broadoak Road, on Thursday (6 November) at 8.30pm.

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