THE grandmother of a toddler with a life-threatening blood disorder plans to stick to her New Year's resolution to raise more money for vital research.

When three-year-old Charlie Whitacker was diagnosed with Diamond Blackfan Anaemia shortly after his birth, Chester-le-Street grandmother June Kynock led the family in coping with the rare condition.

Only 300 people worldwide are known to suffer from the disorder, which causes anaemia by stopping bone marrow from producing enough blood cells.

There has been little research and known treatments carry many side effects.

But after a bad 12 months, in which fundraising efforts have been hampered by foot- and-mouth disease, June is determined to raise more cash than ever in 2002.

June, of Longdean Park, said: "We would have raised plenty of money with a sponsored coast-to-coast cycle ride last summer, but foot and mouth restrictions put paid to that.

"All-in-all we ended up losing money last year. In 2002 the coast-to-coast ride will go ahead, barring mishaps, in May, and we'll have a charity night in the Red Lion, in Chester-le-Street, in April."

Her daughter, Michelle, 30, who now lives in Oxford, was told Charlie was perfectly healthy when he was born, but after he developed a bruise on his abdomen, lost colour and started sleeping a lot, a test revealed the condition.

The toddler how has to suffer a blood transfusion every day.

He also has to be put on a drip at night to drain his body of excess iron.

On top of this, his contact with friends is limited because of the risk of infection, the veins in his arms have collapsed due to constant transfusions and he gets tired very easily.

But, according to his grandmother, he still has reasons to be cheerful.

She said: "He's started going to nursery, which he really enjoys, and he's now got a younger sister called Emily, who he really loves."

Anyone who would like to sponsor this summer's coast-to-coast cycle ride or offer other financial support can contact June on 07790 808720.