A schoolgirl is recovering in a hospital in the Philippines after spending almost a week with a pair of scissors stuck in her head.
Nicole Raga was arguing with her brother over a pencil when the younger lad struck her on the head with his backpack containing the sharp object.
The pair of scissors that were sticking out from the bag became lodged painfully in the 9-year-old's skull at the family home last week.
Her father Rene saw the scissors sticking out of his daughter's head and rushed her to Hospital, where she was kept under supervision. But sadly her family could not pay the 30,000 PHP (£421) for emergency surgery, so she had to wait nearly a week lying on a hospital bed with the scissors still lodged in her skull.
Nicole finally underwent the operation yesterday following donations from concerned locals. She is currently recovering at a hospital in General Santos City.
Nicole's dad Rene Boy Raga said to local media: 'I'm grateful for everyone who extended their help. We are just poor, so I didn't know where to get the money for the surgery. I am so lucky to have everyone who gave money and who prayed for Nicole.
"The doctors said that Nicole will make a full recovery. There is no damage to her brain and the wounds will heal. She will be back to normal very quickly. But she has to be careful.
"I think it's important for parents to see what has happened. Sharp objects like scissors or knives must be kept away from children.
"We have checked everything at home to make sure that there is nothing dangerous. We don't want anything like this to happen again."
Nicole's aunt Kim Abrenica said the youngster was upset by what had happened and uncomfortable while staying in the hospital bed, as she could not move freely because of the object lodged in her head.
Kim added: "My niece was not in pain but she was bored and wanted to walk around and play. The operation was successful. Thank God our prayers were answered. We want to thank everyone who helped our family during the operation - to those who gave aid and money. The Lord knows what you've done for us."
