A teenager whose sister is to undergo life-changing surgery has set up a campaign to support people who are going through hard times.
Aayila Thould’s sister, Kaela, is to have a major operation at the end of the month — and the 14-year-old from Monifieth wanted to let her sister know the amount of support that was out there for her.
The Monifieth High pupil is behind the campaign #keepitcrossed — a social media trend she hopes people will use to show and tell those they know going through difficult times that they support them.
Aayila said the inspiration for the idea came from the best wishes her mum’s friends have given Kaela and the family in the run-up to the youngster’s surgery.
She said: “When my mum started telling her friends my sister was going for surgery they were wishing us luck and saying their fingers were crossed for her.
“That got me thinking about starting this campaign, which would let people in trouble know people were out there supporting them.
“I had the idea that people could send messages or pictures through Facebook or Snapchat along with #keepitcrossed. I just want to let my sister know that there is loads support out there for her but I also wanted to give people a way to show they were thinking of the people they love going through difficult times.
“Knowing that people are thinking of you when you’re in a difficult situation can mean a lot.
“I know how that feels and I have friends who go through difficult times with their families as well.
“I want #keepitcrossed to be a symbol for everyone to know they are not alone in their fight.”
Kaela has severe cerebral palsy, epilepsy, hydrocephalus and is blind.
The 11-year-old also recently developed scoliosis — an abnormal twisting and sideways curvature of the spine — which has been gradually getting worse.
Mum Claire said the surgery is the only way to stop her daughter from suffering pain on a daily basis.
But — due to the complexity of the surgery — the 39-year-old was told that there is a risk Kaela could lose her life.
The mother-of-four said: “Kaela has had so many surgeries throughout her life and this one is the most important one.
“If the surgery is successful she will be able to live a much better life which she deserves so much.
“She has stared death in the face so many times before — she is a fighter.
“Kaela is in so much pain right now that the surgery is the only way she can live a fuller and better life.”
The operation will take place on November 28 at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh.
Claire said: “I’m really proud of what Aayila has achieved.
“It’s such a brilliant idea.
“There are so many people out there who need the support of others to get through difficult times and having something like #keepitcrossed as a message of support can make a big difference.
“When you are wanting to show your support through social media or by text it is difficult to put down what you want to say in writing.
“The #keepitcrossed can help people get over this.
“Whether it’s sending a picture of you crossing your fingers or wearing a crossed plait in your hair to the person, showing support can mean so much.”