Even holding her sippy cup is a challenge, as a condition affecting the nerves in her shoulder and arm has left her with limited use of her left hand.

Without surgery, her parents fear that what she cannot do now could become a lifelong limitation. But there is hope for the little girl.

Shriners Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia has agreed to perform the surgery free of charge, with the procedure scheduled for November 9.

However, getting Ayana there is proving to be another battle for her parents, Rosalee Eccles and Aeon Wilson, who are appealing for approximately J$3 million to cover travel, accommodation, transportation and more than six weeks of therapy in the United States.