Family of three-year-old Boston girl diagnosed with rare type of blood cancer to hold marathon fundraiser
The family of a three-year-old girl from Boston diagnosed with a rare type of blood cancer are to hold a marathon charity event in her name.
Andy Reeson, 53, of Boston, and his son Liam, 25, formerly of Boston, now of Grantham, are to take on a 24-hour bowlathon at Boston Indoor Bowls Club later this month, competiting against local and international talent.
The inspiration for the event comes in the form of Daisy Brown – Andy’s granddaughter and Liam’s niece.
Last year, following issues from birth, Daisy was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a cancer that affects the bone marrow. Her treatment to date has included chemotherapy and, in September, a bone marrow transplant.
The bowlathon is being held to raise funds for Ward 6 of Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where Daisy has been receiving treatment, and PACT, a charity that supports families in South Yorkshire who have young relatives battling cancer.
Andy described Ward 6 as ‘a marvelous place’, saying ‘nothing is too much trouble’.
PACT has provided support to Daisy’s parents, Michaela and Alex, though accommodation it runs near Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Having seen the difference it can make, Andy said he felt compelled to take action to help parents in similar situations.
“I thought I have got to do something,” he said.
And of Daisy, Andy said: “She’s lovely, she’s bubbly, full of life, always got a smile.”
“She’s absolutely taken it in her stride,” he added.
To support the event, visit the GoFundMe page.