Laine’s comeback: prayers, therapy, and a South Tampa community
A five-year-old in South Tampa, Laine Nipper, suffers severe brain inflammation from an autoimmune encephalitis caused by MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). After emergency surgery and a prolonged hospital stay, she enters months of intensive rehabilitation across locations, backed by a community that launched and sustained a “Pray for Laine” campaign with signs, fundraisers, and billboard support. Through music, speech, and other therapies—and with an eye-tracking device to aid communication—Laine shows progress while doctors manage ongoing IVIG treatments and the unpredictable trajectory of her recovery. The family remains hopeful, cherishing small milestones as they navigate an uncertain but determined road ahead.
