An eight-year-old girl from Ely has more than tripled her fundraising target of £300 after completing a trek from Littleport to Ely in aid of the hospital that cares for her.
Ellee Handscomb has undeveloped airways, which leaves her not being able to do anything energetic for a long period of time.
In November 2016 Elle told her mum Ashley that she wished she could give money to her hospital (Addenbrooke’s) so they can “look after the poorly children”.
A cake sale was organised, raising over £350 for the hospital’s charitable trust, the ACT – but Ellee didn’t want to stop there, she wanted to do more.
On Saturday (April 7) Ellee, along with her mother and grandfather took on the two hour walk from Littleport to the Lighthouse community church in Ely.
Ahead of her seven-mile trek, Ellee said: “I’m doing it [the walk] because of my respiratory problems.
“I thought if I do it maybe other children would like to try it [raising money] out.
A crowdfunding page was set up to raise the funds, and with a modest target of £300, along with money raised in cake sales, 50 supporters have since tripled the target with a current sum of £916.
Ellee said she was nervous about the walk but had been doing long dog walks to practise.
“Id like the money raised to buy medicine and toys for children in hospital for them to get better.”
Friends and family organised tea and cakes at the Lighthouse to celebrate Ellee’s arrival and an army of supporters sent supportive messages.
Ashley Handscomb, mum, said: “Clinic 6 (respiratory) at Addenbrooke’s has been caring for Ellee for as long as she can remember.
“They provide a friendly caring environment where Ellee feels comfortable and safe, the play specialist in clinic is always on hand to occupy the children and put them at ease.
“Sometime ago Ellee raised money for the clinic and has said that this is something that she wants to do again. Although this time she not only wants to bake and sell cakes but also wanted to do the walk.”
To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ellee
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