Our best friend Beth is facing every parent’s worst nightmare. Her youngest son, Arlo, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in his brain - Anaplastic Medulloblastoma. This type of cancer is rare, accounting for less than 20% of brain tumours in children.

After Arlo began experiencing balance problems, dizziness and sickness, Beth took him to the doctor. Although nothing concerning was found, she still felt something wasn’t right. Trusting her instincts, she took him to the opticians, who found swelling on his optic nerve and immediately referred him to A&E.

An emergency MRI revealed a build-up of fluid on Arlo’s brain caused by a tumour, and he was rushed into surgery. Since then, Arlo has had two further operations to remove the tumour and a fourth procedure to insert a Hickman line, as he prepares for an intense course of treatment. To add further upset, Arlo is now also suffering with Posterior Fossa Syndrome - a side effect that can happen from operating on the particular area of the brain where Arlo’s tumour was. It happens in up to 30% of cases with varying degrees of severity. Arlo is on the more severe end, and is currently unable to swallow, talk or walk. Without a means to communicate it has made it incredibly difficult to understand what Arlo wants and needs, not to mention how upsetting it is.

Beth is an incredible friend and mum to her four children, watching her family go through this has been heartbreaking.

Alongside the emotional toll, the months ahead will bring huge practical and financial pressures. We are raising funds so Beth can focus on what truly matters — supporting Arlo through treatment and being as present as possible for all of her children during this incredibly difficult time.

The money will help cover the costs of being away from home for treatment, support while income may be reduced, and allow Beth’s mum to stay home to care for her other children and keep life as stable as possible for them.

Our hope is simple: that Beth never has to worry about money while fighting alongside her son. As her friends, we can't take away the pain they are facing, but we can help lift some of the pressure.

If you are able to donate, no matter how small, it will make a real difference to Beth, Arlo and their family.

Thank you so much for your kindness, generosity and support.

With love,

Katie, Mandy, Rach, Liz, Meg & Ella x