Big fundraiser in aid of brave teenager Lewis Thornton (From York Press)

Big fundraiser in aid of brave teenager Lewis Thornton

10:04am Thursday 1st November 2012 in Fundraising fun

A FUNDRAISING effort is under way to help a teenager who battled cancer as a 16-month-old baby to find it had returned when he was 16.

Lewis Thornton, 18, has suffered a string of medical problems and doctors have recently said there is nothing more they can do to cure his cancer.

His mother, Rebecca Thompson, said she has had a strong response to fundraising efforts to adapt the garage of her house off Tadcaster Road to make a comfortable and accessible living area for Lewis.

Miss Thompson, who has three other young sons, said with a small amount of work, it could be turned into the perfect space for Lewis.

An event, Song For Lewis, is being held at the Post Office Club in Marygate on Saturday to help raise money and colourful wristbands with the phrase Lewis Thornton Appeal Brain Cancer Awareness have gone on sale in aid of the appeal.

Miss Thompson, who said she wanted to ensure Lewis had a comfortable and happy Christmas, said: “We have had quite a good response. It has been a really nice thing to think people are coming together and uniting to help Lewis. It’s a warm thought.

“We’re hopefully expecting a good crowd on Saturday.

“If people could come and show their support it would be brilliant. Lots of people have said they are going to come down to the night and are saying they want to buy wristbands.”

Lewis learned his cancer had returned soon after leaving York High School at the age of 16.

Following an operation to remove the brain tumour and intensive radiotherapy, Lewis developed an abscess on his brain and then meningitis, which means he has lost the use of his right hand, arm and leg and the hearing in one ear, and he had to spend six months in hospital.

The former York High School pupil was discharged last October, but learned earlier this year that there is no more doctors can do.

Song For Lewis will feature various artists and tribute acts to artists including Elvis and Tom Jones as well as a live band, Pine for Cedars, and raffle.

The event will start at 7.30pm and entry is free, but donations are invited. For more information, phone organiser Sue Wells on 07583629854.

• To buy a wristband, or for more information about Lewis’s appeal, visit his Facebook group Lewis Thornton Appeal’.