Member Article

BUSINESSES SUPPORT BRAVE TODDLER CHARITY NIGHT

BUSINESSES across the region have pledged their support to a charity night organised in memory of a brave little girl who lost her battle with a rare terminal brain tumour (ATRT).

Kayleigh Cordiner passed away peacefully in her parents arms in June less than six months after being diagnosed with an incurable and extremely rare tumour.

Her parents, Jonathan and Anna, endeavoured to make their daughter’s final few months as special as they could and also stated their desire to set up a charity in Kayleigh’s memory, a charity which would support the families of children who are suffering from terminal illness.

Kayleigh’s Wee Stars was launched shortly before the two year-old lost her battle with illness and now friends of her parents have organised an evening of entertainment to raise funds for the cause.

Anna, who is originally from Peterlee, Co.Durham, but now lives with her husband inAberdeen, said: “We made it out mission to make Kayleigh’s final few months the most special time of our lives, packed full of adventure and memories we would cherish forever.

“We wanted to set up the trust to support families of children who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Through Kayleigh’s Wee Stars we can share our experiences and provide financial support to help families make the most of the precious time ahead.

The charity night is being organised by good friends Caroline and Barry Simpson and John and Emma Wilson. It is being held at the Hearts of Oak public house on Saturday, October 20, and will include music from local bands and musicians, a disco, a raffle and an auction.

All donations raised on the evening will go directly to Kayleigh’s Wee Stars.

Caroline, also from Peterlee, said: “Kayleigh, Anna and Johnny are an inspiration to us all. They refused to be downbeat when they were given the most devastating news and instead promised to make Kayleigh’s last few month so special for her. Now they’re focussed on helping others through the charity they’ve set up in their daughter’s name and we know her friends and family in the North East want to support them. So this charity night is a way for us all to do that.

“The support we’ve had so far has been fantastic. We’ve had donations from many local and national companies including Tesco, Wilkinson, Bunzl Speciality Businesses, Studio William, Robert Welch, Funshack, Adventure Valley and Sunderland Football Club, and also from people who want to help on the night too. I know how much this means to Anna and Johnny so thank you.”

To find out more about the charity night please contact Caroline on 07917 408086 or Emma on 07912 178523.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Leanne English .