Mia Crerar, 5, passed away from a rare form of epilepsy this week. Photo / Facebook
Mia Crerar, 5, passed away from a rare form of epilepsy this week. Photo / Facebook
Mia Crerar was her parents' everything - her mother called her "lovebug" and she was known as "Daddy's puppy".
But the 5-year-old girl from the Hibiscus Coast lost her battle with a rare form of epilepsy this week, even though she'd recently been doing "really well".
Mia Crerar.
Her mother, Cherise, postedon Facebook her daughter arrived in the pouring rain in May 2011 but sadly left them on a sunny Tuesday morning when she didn't wake up.
Mia was born with a rare genetic epileptic dysfunction known as Dravet syndrome which causes seizures from infancy.
The life-long condition can cause other health issues and currently, there is no cure.
Mia with her dad, Calvin, and mum, Cherise. Photo / Facebook
After turning 5 in May, Mia had recently started school, experienced her first bus trip, and discovered the "joy of wearing a snorkel and mask" to the local shopping centre.
She was her parents' pride and joy.
In her Facebook post, Crerar said Mia taught her and her husband, Calvin, to make the most of every day and live like there was no tomorrow.
"She was our sunshine. She touched everyone that met her or came in contact with her from the nurses at Starship to the checkout people at Countdown."
"Thank you for choosing us ... We love you more than any words could ever say!!! Daddy and I are missing you already ... Until we meet again my girl I will carry you with pride in my heart."
Mia with her dad.
A service for Mia will be held on Monday at the Faithfull Funeral Chapel.
Family friends Karyn Cray and Susan Boniface have also set up a Givealittle page to support Mia's parents who have supported the Gulf Harbour, Red Beach and Orewa Primary Schools, Hibiscus Coast Plunket, and Whangaparaoa Lovesoup.
Mia with her mum Cherise. Photo / Facebook
In just two days, more than $5000 has been raised by 87 donors.
