HUNDREDS of people have voiced their support for a five-year-old girl battling a rare cancer after scans revealed removing her tumour carried major risks.

Surgeons said while they hoped to be able to remove the whole of Fraja Simpson’s neuroblastoma growth in the coming weeks, the operation could lead to permanent disability, cancer cells leaking into other parts of her body or fatal blood loss.

Doctors at Leeds General Infirmary said they are hoping to peel the tumour, which the Leeming RAF Community Primary School pupil has named Bob, away from her largest artery, the aorta, without damage, as there is a very fine line of skin between the two.

The surgeons have confirmed to Fraja’s parents, Garry and Michelle, that the tumour has encased one of her kidneys, leaving them with options to remove the kidney or to try to split it.

The tumour has also engulfed her duodenum, the first section of the small intestine, which will have to be removed, along with shaving down her pancreas.

Another complication facing surgeons is the main blood vessel feeding Fraja’s legs being embedded in the tumour.

Writing on the Fraja Ellie Appeal Facebook page dedicated to raising £500,000 for treatments abroad to cut the chance of Fraja suffering a relapse, Mrs Simpson said learning the details of the operation’s potential consequences had left them devastated.

Mrs Simpson, of Leeming, North Yorkshire, said while her family had been aware the operation to remove the tumour would be difficult, learning the details of its potential consequences had left them devastated.

She said: “My world has crashed, but I am looking at my beautiful gorgeous little girl, at her innocent little smile and the love I feel it is indescribable.

"It is this which wraps itself around me and gives me the strength to get through each day.”

Mrs Simpson said after surgeons had revealed the operation’s details, Fraja had seen her crying and asked her if she was sad about the tumour.

Fraja said: “I am sad too mummy, and it has made me cry now. I want Bob to go away, I don’t want to have Bob any more.”

More than 200 supporters have responded to Mrs Simpson’s message, with many saying they had been moved to tears and describing the family’s courage as inspirational.

After meeting Fraja on Saturday, one of the supporters, Jane Lehany, said:“If anyone says they are having a hard time and feeling sorry for them selves take a look at this brave beautiful girl and family then have a rethink.”

For details about the campaign or to donate, visit facebook.com/frajaellieappeal