A YOUNG cancer sufferer whose blog has inspired others battling the disease has been shortlisted for a national fundraising award.
Felix Brown, who was also involved in the Daily Echo’s campaign to raise cash for the Piam Brown ward in Southampton where he was treated, was praised at the Institute of Fundraising’s National Fundraising Awards 2016.
In January ten-year-old Felix was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. He set up a blog from his bed at Southampton Children’s Hospital to share his experiences and launched a JustGiving campaign raising money for Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens.
Within a couple of days he had raised more than £1,000.
The awards were held at the Troxy in London and hosted by comedian Ed Byrne. Felix was shortlisted for the Best Young Fundraiser category and attended the event with dad Dylan, mum Kerry, brother Rufus and sister Talia.
Felix’s mum Kerry Brown said: “It was amazing for Felix to be nominated and shortlisted and we were all delighted to attend the awards night on Tuesday.
"All he had wanted to do was raise awareness and funds to help other people who find themselves in a similar situation as he was earlier this year.
"To think that Felix has helped inspire others and help develop more research into children’s cancer is wonderful.”
Ed Aspel, Cancer Research UK executive director of fundraising and marketing, said: “It’s fantastic that Felix’s hard work for Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens has been recognised by the Institute of Fundraising and we are incredibly proud of him.
“We are so grateful to Felix and his family for helping to raise vital awareness of the need for more research into children’s cancers and for the incredible amount of money that they have raised.
"This will help us find cures and kinder treatments for young people like Felix.”
Cancer Research UK is calling on the public to show their support for children with the disease by nominating a child for a Kids & Teens Star Award or helping to boost funds for research to beat children’s cancers sooner.
To nominate a child, donate or fundraise in support of Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens visit cruk.org/kidsandteens
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