Young cancer patient donates £2,400 of toys as thanks for care
A ten-year-old girl from Chelmsford has turned her cancer journey into an inspiring act of kindness raising £2,400, with the help of her school friends, to donate toys to children’s wards at Broomfield Hospital.
Amber Butcher, a pupil at The Beaulieu Park School, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma - an aggressive bone cancer - at age nine. Due to her illness needing chemotherapy it meant she had to stay in isolation on the children’s ward, meaning she couldn't use the ward’s playroom.
Thanks to the hospital’s play team, Amber and her younger sister Lyla received brand-new toys to enjoy together during these difficult stays.
When Amber learned the toys were donated, she decided she wanted to give something back. With support from Amber and Lyla’s school, including Headteacher Mrs Koller and the wider community, they organised a cake sale and online fundraiser to buy toys for other young patients.
Amber’s mum Victoria said: “The play team were incredible. They made sure Amber and Lyla could play together despite the isolation. We feel so lucky to have had such support from the hospital and our school community.”
Clair Dade, Fundraising Coordinator at Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: “Amber’s courage is truly inspirational. This donation will bring joy to many children and we’re so grateful to Amber, her friends and her school for their generosity.”
Amber has now completed chemotherapy and continues to attend weekly physio and hydrotherapy sessions as part of her recovery.