PRIMARY school pupils are putting on their best hats in support of one of their classmates, who has been battling a brain tumour since she was three.
Bearpark Primary School is supporting “wear a hat day”, in aid of brain tumour research, because of pupil Lyla O’Donovan, from Ushaw Moor, near Durham.
Lyla, six, was just 18 months old when she first started showing symptoms of a brain tumour.
Lyla, pictured as a bridesmaid at her parent's vow renewal earlier this year
Headteacher Joanne Clements said: “Lyla is an extraordinary girl and is really loved here at Bearpark Primary School.
“It’s devastating that she is contending with this disease and the least we can do is make school a happy and positive environment for her.
“We’re looking forward to Wear A Hat Day and hope to raise some much-needed funds towards a cure.”
Paul O’Donovan, Lyla’s dad, said: “It’s lovely to see Lyla’s school getting behind her.”
"She’s been through more than any person, let alone child, should have to go through but school makes her happy and gives her a chance to be like any other six-year-old.
Lyla meeting Scarlett Moffatt, who runs the Angel Trust, before Christmas
“She is really excited for Wear A Hat Day and can’t wait to see everyone in their craziest hats.”
Matthew Price, community fundraising manager for Brain Tumour Research in the North-East, said: “We’re really grateful for Bearpark Primary School’s support. It’s lovely to see the school getting behind Lyla and the thousands of other patients living with this devastating disease.
The O'Donovan family, who live in Ushaw Moor, near Durham
“Lyla’s story reminds us that brain tumours are indiscriminate and they can affect anyone at any age. What’s more, they kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer yet, historically, just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.
“Please join in Wear A Hat Day and help us to change this.”
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