Sydney family suffer after naming daughter Isis

Over the past few months the name ISIS has become synonymous with fear.

It is short for Islamic State, the name of a radical-Muslim terror group striking fear into hearts around the world.

But long before its association with the group, the name's pedigree was one of strength as the name of an ancient Egyptian goddess.

That's why western Sydney parents Sheridan and Frank Leskian named their daughter Isis when she was born eight years ago.

Now, with the terror group making headlines for its heinous acts, the name has taken on a darker, sinister meaning, one that is tearing the Leskian family apart.

"Every day there's some sort of reference in the media or brought up in conversation about how ISIS is evil," Mrs Leskian told News Corp.

"It's ruining our family and it's ruining Isis's future."

Mrs Leskian said although her daughter was unaware of her name's association with the terror group, friends have begun abandoning the couple claiming they're afraid to be associated with them.

"Some people say we should change her name, but that's just ridiculous," Mrs Leskian said.

"She's eight years old; she'll hardly be told what to do at all. What people need to do is stop using this beautiful name for this evil group."

The Leskians are not alone in their suffering.

US mother Isis Martinez has started an online petition calling on the media to stop using the name when referring to the terror group.

So far more than 30,000 people have signed, with many claiming they face the same problem as Ms Martinez and the Leskians.

Source: News Corp, SaveOurName