'We were always guided by Lexi and knew that she would know when enough was enough...'

LOVED ones are supporting a hospice's Christmas appeal in memory of their daughter, who died aged just 17.

- By SAM KALANTZIS

The family of Lexi Spicer is now giving back to Rainbows, the Loughborough hospice for children and young people, which helped her during difficult times.

The Spicers, from Ratby, described Lexi, who was born almost five weeks early with a congenital heart defect, as "beautiful, spirited and so full of personality."

After being born earlier than expected, she spent her first weeks of life in neonatal intensive care and had major heart surgery at 10 days old.

Lexi, who was also diagnosed with global development delay, was then given a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome in July last year. The condition meant her kidneys leaked protein into her urine.

Tragedy struck in September last year when Lexi, who was in hospital being treated for nephrotic syndrome, had a seizure leading to a cardiac arrest. She died in hospital shortly after turning 17.

Her parents, Sally and Stewart, and stepdad Mark, were always told she may not reach milestone birthdays and further heart surgery would be needed as she grew bigger.