CHARLI Berghauser feels like a shadow of her former self.
The Jimboomba State School student has been involved with the Jimboomba Thunder rugby league club since she was five-years-old.
She also had a passion for quad biking and an array of outdoor activities until she was confronted with a devastating medical diagnosis in October, 2017.
Charli, 9, suffers from a pinealcystic tumor blocking cerebrospinal fluid from her brain.
This has caused constant headaches, blurry vision, dizziness and learning difficulties at school.
Charli said the diagnosis dealt a devastating blow to her quality of life.
“Since finding out about my cystic tumor, I haven’t been allowed to do what I love,” she said.
“All the doctors said that I was fine but I’m not. They wouldn't let me play on a jumping castle or a trampoline or even let me play Rugby.
Mother, Kassandra Humphry, said Charli’s medical condition had taken an emotional toll on the family.
“If left untreated, the blocking of the fluid can cause brain damage or death,” she said.
“The sooner we treat it the better. She could have these symptoms for six months or six years...she could go tomorrow.
“Charli tells me I’m not allowed to cry because I would be weak, and I can’t be weak.”
The family learned the surgery required to remove the cyst would cost $100,000 following an appointment with Dr Teo.
Ms Humphry said this left her with no option, other than to ask for help.
“I am never one to ask for help...I’m always wanting to help everyone else. How do I get in my car and go out to ask? It is hard,” she said.
“Doctor Teo has done 100 of these operations and so far he has had a 100 per cent success rate. The first six weeks is the healing process.
“It is a very risky operation, but Charli knows the risks.”
The family launched a #chance4charli GoFundMe page campaign on Wednesday, August 29, in a bid to raise funds for the surgery.
Chicks Conquering Cancer, led by Kathy Smith, is also fundraising with a Ladies Lunch at the Veresdale Hotel on September 20 from 11.30am.
The lunch costs $25 per person.
To book call 0427945789.
