Zara Mulheran tribute: Mum promises to fight for daughter’s justice after tragic death

Zara’s devastated mum has vowed to “never give up” on finding justice for her brave little girl who died from the usually harmless hand, foot and mouth disease at a Queensland hospital.

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A heartbroken Caboolture mother has issued a statement following the death of her daughter at the state’s top children’s hospital, promising to reach justice after she claimed Queensland Health failed her baby.

In the statement shared to The Courier-Mail, Carly Mulheran paid tribute to her daughter Zara, calling her a “radiant and precious” girl who always had the biggest smile on her face.

“My darling Zara Jayde, your name means radiance and precious and that is the truest thing,” Ms Mulheran said.

Zara Mulheran died on Wednesday afternoon after contracting hand, foot and mouth disease. Picture: Supplied

“You faced so many battles in your short life and never once did that take away your smile that reached from one ear to another.”

The 20-month-old died on Wednesday afternoon due to complications stemming from the usually harmless hand, foot and mouth disease that left her fighting for life.

Ms Mulheran claims Queensland Health failed her daughter on multiple occasions beginning when Zara was first diagnosed with hyperinsulism at just six-months-old.

Mere hours before Zara suffered a 12-minute long cardiac arrest, Ms Mulheran invoked Ryan’s Rule at the state’s top children’s hospital after watching her daughter turn blue and struggle to breathe in front of staff.

“I will not give up on getting you justice, our legacy will change the system so no other little person has to feel your pain,” she said.

Carly Mulheran has claimed Queensland Health failed her baby Zara. Picture: Liam Kidston

“You changed me into a better mother Zara, me and your other siblings will speak of you often and relive your happy memories.

“Love you my beautiful girl, until we meet again, love Mumma.”

Other family members also paid tribute to the tiny tot who spend much of her short life battling numerous health conditions daily.

“You may never turn two, but your memory will last with us forever,” Zara’s aunty said.

“You are the strongest, bravest girl I’ve ever met and were simply just too good for this world.”

Zara Mulheran died after her mother invoked Ryan’s Rule at a Queensland hospital.

“From the moment you graced our world with your presence, you brought joy and innocence that warmed our hearts, your spirit radiated strength and bravery, illuminating our lives with a resilience beyond your years,” Zara’s uncle and cousins said.

“I am sending a dove to heaven with a parcel on its wings,” Zara’s grandmother said.

Zara’s family continue to ask for donations to their GoFundMe page to pay for the toddler’s upcoming funeral.

Health minister Shannon Fentiman confirmed on Tuesday a full inquiry into Zara’s treatment by Queensland Health will be undertaken.