A CHARITY that supports babies and children with severe immune conditions has launched its biggest fundraising appeal.

The Bubble Foundation UK works with the Children’s Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at the Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle to help children from across the world with conditions such as Severe Combined Immune Deficiency (SCID), which is fatal if untreated with a year of birth.

In many cases the only treatment that offers a chance of survival is a bone marrow transplant.

It is best known for its “bubble” – a box of sterile air which protects children from bugs and bacteria.

Today (Monday, October 26), the Foundation launched a £500,000 appeal to fund new research into the genetic causes of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PIDs) and other disorders.

Parents of children who have spent time in the bubble are supporting the effort.

Maureen Cairns, whose seven-year-old daughter Lily Thornton spent six months in the bubble, said: “The research and treatments the team are pioneering are just amazing and without that we wouldn’t be where we are today with the happy little girl we have.

“I would urge people everywhere to support the bubble – it really does make all the difference.”

To support the appeal, visit bubblefoundation.org.uk or justgiving.com/bubblefoundation

People are invited to post bubble-related selfies or videos via The Bubble Foundation’s social media channels.