"Livewire had a huge impact on me. Without them, there would be nothing to keep me entertained and happy in hospital. It's amazing to be able to talk to people who understand how I'm feeling." - Taleisa
16-year-old Taleisa lives with an 'invisible' illness. While looking well to the outside world, the teen deals with chronic pain from a range of complex health conditions.
Up until last year, singing, dancing and acting were Taleisa's life. Her mum Michelle recalls the distress seeing the sudden change in her bubbly and outgoing daughter.
"Taleisa was suffering from constant pain and was unable to get out of bed. She was fatigued and not sleeping. She was crying she was in so much pain," her mum said.
Doctors diagnosed Taleisa with the spinal condition Sheurermann's Disease, as well as Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tacchycardia Syndrome (POTS) and anaemia.
"It was a shock, but we felt relieved to finally have some answers," Michelle said.
Since then, Taleisa has had ongoing time in hospital and countless specialist appointments. She missed school and struggled to go out for long periods of time. Dance classes were put on hold, replaced with physio and occupational therapy sessions.
The impact took its toll and Taleisa was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. Taleisa said her illness felt really isolating.
"My life wasn't the best and it was hard to find people who understood what I was going through," Taleisa said.
That changed when the Livewire team visited Taleisa in hospital. Livewire brought a smile to Taleisa's face and helped take her mind off her illness and treatment.
Livewire encouraged Taleisa's creativity and she was thrilled when her artwork of Kylie Minogue was exhibited as a finalist in The Lester Prize for Portraiture - Youth Section.
Through the Livewire in-hospital team, Taleisa discovered Livewire Online - a community for young people living with disability, serious or chronic health conditions.
"Livewire has been an amazing support network helping Taleisa meet other teens with invisible illnesses and realise that she isn’t alone in this journey," her mum said.
Taleisa describes the Livewire community as kind, supportive and fun. She loves logging on to catch up with friends and to check out the latest guests, activities or competitions.
"There is no negativity or judgement. Whenever I feel down, there is always someone or something to cheer me up," she says.
For Taleisa, the main benefit of Livewire is connecting with other teens who share similar experiences of hospital and serious illness. Her mum is so thankful Livewire is there for them.
"The amazing Livewire team always inspire Taleisa to keep going. Livewire has played a huge part in her recovery. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continuous support."
And to any teen considering Livewire, Taleisa says, "Sign up as soon as you can, Livewire is the best thing ever!"