Crazy hairstyles helped raise thousands of pounds to provide treatment for a young cancer patient and other children in his situation.
Luke Wiltshire, 15, of Northolt, who attends the Alec Reed Academy was first diagnosed with high risk neuroblastoma, an aggressive childhood cancer of specialised nerve cells, in 2012 after complaining of back pain and the appearance of a lump in his abdomen.
The academy in Bengarth Road, Northolt, had a mad hair day which raised £3,206.46 on Friday last week, with an additional contribution of £1,000 by the school’s sponsor Sir Alec Reed.
Pupils and staff are still collecting cash with a cake sale this week and other events are being planned. Everything raised will be donated to The Neuroblastoma Children’s Cancer Alliance UK (NCCA UK). The money will help Luke should he need expensive treatment abroad or other children affected by neuroblastoma.
Luke’s sister Claire Riley, 23, said: “I think it’s amazing the school have stepped up to help. How much they have raised is outstanding and they have not finished yet. It’s nice to know that other people are thinking of him and Luke is really grateful.”
Drama teacher Ian Selby, said: “Luke’s target when he set up his fundraising page was £5,000 but we are probably going to surpass that. Luke went in to hospital for an operation on Saturday which seems to have gone well so it’s all been for a good cause. The kids have really pulled together to try to help, and parents have taken sponsorship forms to work so it’s gone out to the community.”
Mr Selby added: “Luke is enrolled for sixth form in September and we are hoping he will be well enough.”
You can make a donation to Luke’s appeal by visiting www.justgiving.com/NCCAUKLukes
Journey or texting LUWT78 and your amount £1 to £10 to 70070.
NCCA UK helps children access potentially life-saving treatment, supports research and brings existing available options to the UK.
The charity also supports parents by sharing the most current resources available for neuroblastoma treatments and providing contact to other parents who want to share their knowledge.
All donations are made to the NCCA UK’s general fund, from which the trustees allocate funds for treatment for the child concerned as well as research, education, awareness and admin costs.
