mmg.com.au

Rohan Chugg was in disbelief and Suzanne Glanville choked away tears on Friday as they were handed a cheque for more than $31,000 to help with the ongoing care and rehabilitation of their precious wife and daughter, Kirsty.

Rohan says Kirsty, who has been in hospital for nearly nine months battling a rare illness after giving birth to son Lachlan eight weeks premature, will be touched to know how much the community cares.

The money for the Kirsty Chugg Rehabilitation Appeal was raised for the Lockington family from a fundraising auction in December, as well as raffles and donations.

Committee member Vicki O’Connor said it was great to see the community come together to help a family in crisis.

‘‘Even though times have been tough, clubs and organisations, businesses, families and individuals from around the district still gave something. They should feel proud that they have helped this beautiful young family in some way,’’ she said.

‘‘People have really been touched by Kirsty’s story and we have received so much support and offers for help.

‘‘I’d just like to thank the committee for all their hard work.’’

Rohan who has been sharing his time with Kirsty in Melbourne and Lachlan in Echuca, said he was overwhelmed by the support.

‘‘I am very grateful and appreciative. It will go a long way in helping with Kirsty’s rehabilitation and ongoing care,’’ he said.

‘‘I would give it all back if I could have her home.’’

Kirsty, who has been suffering from autoimmune limbic encephalitis after a seizure left her incapacitated in May, was in the Austin Hospital before being moved to the Royal Talbot rehabilitation centre on August 9.

Despite a recent set-back to her recovery due to a flare-up of the encephalitis, Kirsty is back in the rehabilitation centre.

It is unknown when Kirsty will be well enough to come home, but her family say they will be there every step of the way.