Rare Amoeba Threatens Louisiana Girl | New Orleans News

An 8-year-old girl from Ruston, Louisiana, is fighting for her life after contracting the rare, deadly brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri while swimming in Lake Claiborne. Symptoms began with a fever and rapidly escalated to double vision—initially mistaken for bacterial meningitis—before tests confirmed the terrifying diagnosis. With her parents unable to work and bills piling up, the family has turned to their community for support, launching a GoFundMe and a Facebook page called “Love for Lillian” to share updates and ask for prayers. Local businesses rallied with a “Love for Lillian” day, donating sales to help, and even celebrated her birthday in the hospital as hope remains alive. Health officials warn this amoeba thrives in warm freshwater but not saltwater or chlorinated pools. The family’s plea? Prayers for healing and reduced brain pressure as they hold on to every miracle. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3c9e05d92db68f00