A YOUNG leukaemia sufferer’s Disney dreams could now come true, thanks to generous well wishers.

Three-year-old Lucy Kella’s wish to meet princesses Anna and Elsa from Frozen is one step closer to being granted after a fundraising drive.

The Darlington girl has touched the hearts of her local community after a brave battle with the disease.

Diagnosed last year, she endured months of invasive and painful treatment as her devoted family, including mum Beth Mawson and dad Craig Kella, looked on helplessly.

Now in the final stages of treatment, her parents say she is looking forward to a bright future, a normal life and the trip of a lifetime to Disney World in Florida.

Fundraising efforts have seen more than £1,000 collected in a bid to send Lucy and her family on the well-deserved holiday.

Staff from Asda stores across Darlington have held a number of activities designed to raise money for the family, with visitors and workers donating via collection buckets, fundraising stalls and Easter competitions.

Lucy’s mother – who works for Asda – said the family were grateful for the support given.

Ms Mawson said: “It would mean everything to get her to Disney World.

“Lucy really wants to see the Frozen characters and it will be nice to watch her running around at the end of her treatment.

“We’re really grateful and amazed at how much everyone has come together and how generous they’ve been.

“Her illness came as a shock and she’s been in and out of hospital – it’s been a terrible ordeal but she’s doing really well at the moment and is in the final stage of treatment.”

Lucy’s nana, Tracy Kella added: “Lucy has missed out on quite a lot and we’ve had to keep her indoors so she doesn’t catch infections.

“It’s put a lot of strain on the family and we haven’t been able to do a lot of things with all the trips to and from hospital – it all takes its toll.

“This trip is to create memories – it’s something Lucy can look forward to at the end of her treatment and something she can remember from her childhood that isn’t being in hospital.”

A fundraising ball will be held in aid of Lucy on Friday, May 15 at Bannatyne’s Hotel in Darlington.

Tickets are £30 and include a two course meal, auction and entertainment including a Michael Buble tribute.

For more information or to book tickets, email br.mawson@icloud.com.