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A CHRONICALLY ill woman and her family were the targets of a hate crime just days after their home was flooded. Lavinia Pike, her partner and teenage daughter have been living in motels since record rains inundated their property near Hobart last week. On Tuesday, she dropped in to her Sandford house to feed her animals when she discovered a homophobic attack. Hate speech such as "lesos" "sluts" and "poofta" had been spraypainted throughout the home. Ms Pike, who has chronic asthma and an acquired brain injury, said she was stunned by the homophobia. "I was shocked, disgusted and angry but also disappointed. We've put up with a lot of crap. I'm already sick, I'm already depressed and anxious and now this on top," she said. "People shouldn't do this regardless of their beliefs. This is an innocent family that's recued so many animals." The mother is closely attached to her pets - two pigs and three goats - which she rescued from other properties. She also volunteers with Brightside Farm Sanctuary looking after some of their animals. During Tuesday's attack a computer was also stolen, meaning Ms Pike's daughter will have difficulty when school starts. Ms Pike said she had spent $4000 on her credit card since the rain forced them to find emergency accommodation and they had spent time in four motels. The dedicated animal advocate said she was distressed about her animals alone on the property. "We need help for the animals," she said.' Ms Pike said she had never been subjected to such abuse in her life. Tasmania Police are investigating. Anybody with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

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