We would like to raise money to support Ellia and her family, who are going through an incredibly tough time.

Ellia is 8 and earlier this year was diagnosed with a brain tumour after developing seizures. Following a long and anxious wait over the summer holidays, it was confirmed that she has a grade 1 diffuse brain tumour which cannot be removed surgically due to its location. In October, Ellia began weekly chemotherapy sessions, which are planned to continue for 85 weeks. She has struggled with nausea following some sessions and is beginning to lose her hair, but despite all of this, she continues to come to school on most days and carry on with life as normally and bravely as possible.

Ellia and her parents, Dan and Emma (and her younger sister Mahla, who is 2), have faced these challenges with remarkable courage, positivity, and strength. Their lives have been completely turned upside down, yet they are still doing their best to continue working as primary school teachers whenever possible, spending their days showing kindness and compassion to other children and families.

We hope that these funds will help Dan and Emma make life just a little easier (and hopefully a bit more enjoyable) for the whole family over the coming year. This could include:

• Fun activities for Ellia during chemo sessions (art supplies, magazines, a new iPad, Audible subscription, etc.)

• Snacks or drinks during hospital visits

• Petrol for trips to Bristol Children’s Hospital

• A special breakfast stop on the way to a chemo session

• A family weekend away (such as Centre Parcs or similar), or theatre tickets and a family meal

• A meal out for Emma and Dan (with babysitting!)

• Ready meals for the freezer to reduce day-to-day pressures

There are, of course, many other ways the money may be used, but the most important thing is that it will be there for whatever the family needs, with no strings attached. We know they would find it difficult to ask for help themselves, but they would be incredibly grateful for any support given, and every donation will be thoughtfully and carefully spent.

Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.