SHREVEPORT, La. -- A Ruston-area family is asking for prayers and support as their 7-year-old daughter faces a serious health battle involving a rare brain infection.
According to multiple social media posts shared by family members and people close to the family, Lillian Smart was hospitalized at Willis-Knighton South after developing a high fever and becoming ill last Thursday. Her condition is believed to involve a parasitic amoeba attacking her body.
Willis-Knighton has not confirmed or denied whether Lillian is a patient.
The naegleria fowleri amoeba, sometimes called the "brain-eating amoeba," can cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM, a rare and often fatal infection. The amoeba can be found in warm freshwater and can enter the body through the nose. It does not cause infection when swallowed.
The infection can cause a rapid and severe inflammation of the brain.
Expert Dr. Sandra Gompf of University of South Florida Health described PAM as a “very rapid and intense, life threatening infection of the brain” in an educational video.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says PAM is extremely rare, with fewer than 10 cases reported on average in the United States each year. It is not spread from person to person.
According to social media posts, Lillian’s medical team has been working with the CDC to obtain medication to treat the infection. The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
As Lillian remains hospitalized, churches and community members across Ruston have been gathering to pray for her and support her family.
Chris Craig, senior pastor at First Baptist Church in Ruston, where the Smart family attends, said the church is praying for a miracle. They held a gathering Monday specifically for Lillian's recovery, placing their faith in the power of prayer.
“We believe that prayer is one of the huge ways God works. So we’re banging on his door asking for His grace and a miracle,” Craig said.
Community members are also organizing fundraisers to help the Smart family with expenses not covered by insurance.
Imperium Weightlifting and Fitness in Ruston is planning a fundraiser Friday at 6 p.m. The event is asking for a $20 donation for a partner workout.
Gym owner Randy Gorman, who knows the Smart family, told KTBS that the event is being held to support Lillian and her parents, Rebecca and Daniel Smart.
An online fundraising campaign has also been established to help the family with expenses related to Lillian’s treatment.
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