It’s a sad day in Lebanon. On Friday, the community supporting baby Mila Marzouk woke up to the heartbreaking news that she has passed away.
13-month-old Mila put up a brave fight living through her painful life-limiting disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 1 (SMA1) since she was diagnosed at only 4 months old.
Many infants with SMA1 do not live past the age of 2. Her parents worked relentlessly to raise money to afford urgent treatment: a one-time Zolgensma injection that costs over $2,000,000.
Sadly, only 20 days after raising the money needed, Mila suffered from a lack of oxygen and fell into a coma, making it no longer possible for her to receive the SMA1 treatment.
Her family and those rooting for her recovery were heartbroken and knew it was only a matter of time until she peacefully passed away.
Overnight, her family announced on Instagram that Mila is now in God’s care.
“May you Rest In Peace Angel!” commented Rima Fakih, Lebanese-American former Miss USA. Madi Karimeh, activist and DJ from Tripoli’s thawra, mourned the little fighter saying, “Oh Mila, you made me cry from the heart.”
Our deepest condolences go to Mila’s family, her parents, and her siblings. May she rest in peace.