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RIVER MENZIES-STAFF WAS JUST 21 MONTHS OLD WHEN SHE LOST THE ABILITY TO WALK. 12:05, 02 Jun 2025Updated 12:39, 02 Jun 2025 A mum was repeatedly told her baby daughter had a viral illness

only for doctors to later discover she had a brain tumour. Little River Menzies-Staff began vomiting every morning when she was just 21 months old. Due to Covid restrictions at the time,

worried mum Katie Staff was only able to speak with doctors over the phone. Katie, 36, was reassured on several occasions that River was likely suffering no more than a viral illness. But

her world came crashing down on September 21, 2021, when her baby suddenly lost the ability to walk. River was rushed to A&E and doctors soon diagnosed River with an ependymoma brain

tumour. The tot spent the next seven months in hospital, where she suffered a stroke during her first brain operation, fell into a two-week coma and had to undergo a tracheostomy which she

still has in place today. Mum of two Katie, from Barrhead, said: "Despite two major brain surgeries, some of the tumour remains as it was too risky to remove completely. River then

endured intensive chemotherapy, spending months in the hospital due to severe complications. This was followed by six weeks of radiotherapy. Article continues below "Today, River faces

many challenges. She can no longer walk, talk, or eat and is tube-fed. She has reduced hearing and vision on her left side, along with osteoporosis from chemotherapy and scoliosis caused by

muscle weakness. When she was first diagnosed, we were given just a 30% survival rate—but River is a true fighter." The family is now fundraising for a bespoke trike to allow River to

get out and about more, and additional physiotherapy. Katie said: "We are raising funds to support River’s ongoing care, therapy, and medical needs. Every donation, no matter how small,

will make a difference in her journey." Katie added: "The physiotherapy makes a huge difference to her, she can now take a few steps between furniture which is a huge improvement

on what she was able to do before.’ "In spite of her issue she is a happy little girl who loves to watch TV, play outside and spend time with other people. Her future is uncertain but

like any mother, I just want the best for her and every penny received to help her live her best life possible is hugely appreciated." JOIN THE DAILY RECORD WHATSAPP COMMUNITY! Get the

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choose 'exit group'. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Article continues below River's family is being supported by children's charity Tree of Hope,

which helps families raise vital funds for medical treatments and healthcare services not freely available to them through the NHS and social care. Tree of Hope CEO Becky Andrew said:

"We wish River and her family all the best with their fundraising activities. We are pleased to be supporting them to give them the support in reaching their fundraising goals." To

learn more about River or to donate to her fund visit https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/get-involved/childrens-campaigns/rivers-recovery/