One Year On: The Day Our World Changed, And The Strength That Followed

Just over a year ago, our lives changed in a way we could never have imagined.

What started as something seemingly ordinary quickly became something no family could ever prepare for, when Eira was diagnosed with Acute Necrotising Encephalitis. Those first days were filled with fear, uncertainty, and questions we did not yet know how to answer.

But while that diagnosis marked the beginning of this journey, it does not define everything that has happened since.

Over the past 12 months, life has changed completely. It has become shaped by care, therapies, routines, appointments, and learning to live in a new way. Yet within all of that, there has also been progress, hope, love, and so many moments that have reminded us just how strong Eira is.

For everyone who has followed Eira’s Story on Facebook, you have walked beside us through so much of this year. Looking back now, it is clear just how far Eira has come.

In the early days, we shared the fear and shock of trying to understand a diagnosis we had never heard of before. Very quickly, those updates became about something else entirely — the tiny signs, the small changes, and the precious moments we held onto with everything we had.

One of the first moments that gave us real hope was a small flicker of responsiveness. To others, it may have seemed tiny. To us, it meant everything. It was one of the first times we allowed ourselves to believe that progress, however slow, was possible.

As the weeks passed, we began sharing updates about Eira spending more time away from hospital and slowly settling into a new rhythm at home. That transition brought challenges of its own, but it also gave us moments we had missed so deeply — being together in our own space, finding comfort in familiar surroundings, and simply being a family again.

Therapies gradually became part of everyday life. Physiotherapy, sensory work, routines, and sessions all became part of Eira’s ongoing recovery and wellbeing. Every response, every moment of engagement, and every small step forward became something to celebrate.

Some of the updates that meant the most were the simplest ones — the days when Eira seemed more settled, more comfortable, or more present. The days when we could share that she was having a “good day.” Those moments may sound ordinary, but to us they were everything.

Many of you will remember when we shared about experiencing a normal family moment again — time together without appointments, without interruptions, and without the constant weight of everything else. Just being together. That was a milestone in itself, and a reminder that the little things often mean the most.

Of course, this year has also brought harder days. Days when things did not go to plan. Days when progress felt painfully slow. Days when we were reminded just how unpredictable this journey can be.

But even on those days, the support around us never disappeared.

Alongside Eira’s progress, there have been incredible acts of kindness. Fundraisers have been organised, events have been held, messages have been sent, and people have supported Eira in ways we could never have imagined. Every gesture, big or small, has reminded us that we are not walking this path alone.

Looking back, the posts from this past year tell the story better than we ever could in one update. They show the reality of this journey — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

And through it all, there is Eira.

Her strength, resilience, and quiet determination continue to guide us every single day. She has faced more in one year than most people face in a lifetime, yet she keeps going in her own way, inspiring everyone around her.

More than anything, this past year has shown us the power of kindness and community.

Through Eira’s Story, we have seen people come together in a way we will never forget. From donations and fundraising events, to messages, cards, comments, and shares, every act of support has helped carry us through.

To those who have supported Eira financially, helping us provide the care, equipment, therapies, and opportunities she needs — thank you.

To those who have followed her journey, shared our updates, and sent words of encouragement — you have lifted us more than you will ever know.

To our family, friends, and wider community who have stood beside us practically, emotionally, and consistently — thank you for being our strength when we have needed it most.

And to everyone who continues to be part of Eira’s journey, whether quietly or openly — you are part of her story.

This year has changed everything. It has challenged us, shaped us, and taught us more than we could ever put into words. But it has also shown us love, resilience, and the extraordinary difference a community can make.

Twelve months on, we are still learning, still adapting, and still moving forward together.

Eira’s story is still being written, and we are so grateful to have so many of you walking alongside us. 💜