FINAL TESTS WILL decide if Moray toddler Eileidh Paterson will be able to undergo treatment in the United States that has the potential to save her life.
People from throughout Scotland have become involved in one of the most intense fundraising efforts ever seen in Moray, with the required £100,000 target very close to being achieved in a matter of weeks.
The appeal was launched in April that would allow the three-year-old from Forres to travel to Michigan for pioneering treatment in the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. There it is hoped that she will undergo a course of treatment that reduces the chances of the Neuroblastoma cancer returning.
Eileidh’s mother Gail Paterson admitted that the next few weeks are the most nerve-wracking yet, with Eileidh going through a series of checks at Aberdeen’s Royal Children’s Hospital to establish that she has beaten the cancer – and will be able to travel.
“The fundraising has been going well and there are still bits and pieces to come in – but nothing can be finalised until after we have the results of these tests,” Gail said, adding: “If there is any sign of the cancer then Eileidh cannot go to the US.
“It is a series of test she must go through and we have been travelling back and forwards to Aberdeen – it will be quite a rush when we get the results at the end of the month and then, hopefully, travel to Michigan at the start of July.”
Meanwhile events continue to push the fund over its target – it currently stands at almost £99,000. On Friday, Moray entertainer Andy Leighton James will lead a charity dance for the appeal at the Inverurie Bowling Club while some more adventurous fundraisers will take on a Bungee Jump in Killiecrankie at the weekend.
Details of the efforts being put in by individuals and groups are being posted on the Eileidh’s Journey Facebook Page while individuals or groups who wish to donate directly can do so by sending a texting EPAT88 to 70070 with the amount between £1 and £10 they wish to donate.
Donations can also be made online via the Eiledih’s Journey Just Giving website