Rehab spa gives new lease on life

Albany girl Annika Williams has shown courage in the face of adversity over the past two years.

Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in April 2012, when she was just eight years old, the effects of Annika's chemotherapy left her unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair.

However, the brave youngster is back on her feet and had plenty of reason to celebrate her 11th birthday on August 22 - a new spa which is helping aid her recovery.

Variety WA funded a $21,000 spa for Annika as part of a charity fundraiser for seriously ill WA children in November.

The hydrotherapy sessions are aimed at improving her cardiovascular fitness and strengthen her weakened bones and muscles after her lowered immune system risked her getting sicker in public pools.

The spa was filled for the first time six weeks ago and Annika has loved getting in the water three times a week.

"I … swim into the jets and kick my legs and also dive down to the bottom and pick things up. It helps me feel better," she said. Annika finished her last round of chemotherapy last month and is in remission, but has monthly check-ups and quarterly trips to Perth to monitor her condition.

Mother Rachael Tilley said it was great to see Annika walking freely working towards being able to run and do sports with her friends.

"She has been getting her confidence back. The bonus for us is seeing her in there with her friends, laughing and having fun because we don't see that too often," she said.