Shai's wheelchair was taken from her Warilla home last weekend, leading Lake Illawarra police to issue a public call for information on the theft.

Shai's mother, Kerri, said a nearby resident found the wheelchair outside their home on Saturday.

"Someone rang the police to say they found it, and reported it after they heard about it in the media," Kerri said.

"Shai is very happy. We just want to thank the police, and everyone who helped."

Kerri said the wheelchair was customised for Shai's height and weight and would have cost $6000 to replace. There appeared to be no damage to the purple chair.

"Sounds like someone just took it for a joyride," Kerri said. "Shai is happy, it's great to have it back."

She said a replacement chair would not have arrived until January, forcing Shai to use a cheap aluminium wheelchair until then.

On Tuesday, Kerri said: "It's pathetic for someone to steal it. I want to shame them a bit. Hopefully they have a bit of a conscience and bring it back."

Lake Illawarra police said on Wednesday afternoon that no one had been charged over the theft.