Paralysed from birth, with bilateral dislocation of the hips

Marylene Debono of Zejtun is in the prime of her life but, unlike most of her 16-year-old peers, she has been paralysed since birth.

Writing on behalf of the Debono family, whom he has known for several years, Fr George Spiteri is appealing for donations to help them cope with the huge medical expenses they are burdened with.

On examination at birth, Ms Debono was found to have bilateral dislocation of the hips but every treatment to realign them failed. It was later found to be due to a rare neuromuscular condition, with similar symptoms to muscular dystrophy - in her case causing weakness particularly in the muscles around the hips, her doctor said.

She was taken to Hammersmith Hospital in the UK for further assessment. Since then, she has been frequenting the hospital almost twice a year to be assessed on her progression.

Despite government assistance, the family cannot seem to cope with the medical expenses, particularly where travel is concerned.

Ms Debono has developed normally and attends a normal school, keeping up with her classmates. But, unfortunately, due to frequent sitting and the use of callipers to walk about, at the beginning of her growth spurt, she started to develop scoliosis, which is being monitored. She also has to wear a spinal brace to support her back and prevent further deterioration of her condition, her doctor said.

She undergoes regular physiotherapy and hydrotherapy at a great expense - a burden that has had to be carried by the family, with her father holding down as many odd jobs as is physically possible.

To add insult to injury, her father recently developed severe chest pains and, following several hospital examinations, is no longer fit to carry out strenuous work. Illiterate and on the minimum wage, his work opportunities are limited.

Donations to Mr Debono and her family can be made to HSBC account number 564268828 or to Angelle Debono, 15, Triq Lorenzo Gafà, Zejtun.