PARENTS of a young brain tumour patient are appealing for birthday cards from across the globe ahead of her seventh birthday.

Lyla O’Donovan, from Ushaw Moor, near Durham, was just three years old when she was diagnosed with a pilocytic astrocytoma brain tumour.

Since then, she has suffered from endless complications and the family has dealt with a series of blows along the way.

The Bearpark Primary School pupil will turn seven on November 28 and has said she would like to receive lots of birthday cards.

Her father, Paul O’Donovan, a corporal in the British Army, based at Bishop Auckland with 8th Battalion The Rifles, said: “Lyla’s brought so much joy and recognition to other young people around the world, it would be amazing if, in return, her birthday wish could come true.

“Lyla will be back in hospital just after Christmas to undergo her tenth brain operation.

“She is so brave and never complains, in spite of all she has been through. She is so deserving of some extra love and well wishes on her big day.”

Lyla’s family is working with the charity Brain Tumour Research to raise awareness of the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Since her diagnosis, Lyla has had to deal with meningitis, hydrocephalus and needed to have a VP shunt implanted, to relieve some of the pressure on her brain.

Last November, doctors advised the O’Donovan family to “go and make memories”, as they were running out of treatment options for the brave youngster.

Despite everything she has faced, Lyla has been dedicated to bringing cheer to other children, who also face life-changing challenges.

She and her big sister set up ‘Lyla and Lilley’s Stars’, to send certificates of bravery to other sick children around the world.

Last month this amazing venture secured Lyla a prestigious Inspirational Child award, presented to her by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, at a national awards ceremony.

Lyla took centre stage at the glittering event and also had a few moments, along with her father Paul, to speak to Prince Harry and Meghan backstage.

Now, as the heroic schoolgirl prepares to turn seven, she is hoping her birthday will be made extra special, by receiving cards from far and wide.

The first few unexpected cards have already been delivered and Lyla has also attracted online messages of support from businesses and personalities around the country.

Brain Tumour Research community fundraising manager Matthew Price, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Paul and Kirsty for working with us to help raise awareness of this awful disease.

“Lyla is such a courageous little girl and she and her family are in our thoughts as she faces yet more surgery following her brain tumour diagnosis.

“When we heard about Lyla’s birthday card appeal, we were delighted to be among the first supporters to pop a card in the post for her and it would be lovely if lots of other people did the same.”

  • To send a card, address it to: Lyla O’Donovan, 3 Hogarth Close, Durham, DH7 7SA.