Brave little Ella nominated for Child Of The Year title

2:07pm Thursday 17th April 2008

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THIS little girl battled against cancer - and now her proud parents want to mark her bravery by nominating her for a top award Little Ella Ferrebee, of Acomb, York, has fought a rare form of childhood cancer since she was diagnosed at only ten months of age.

Mum Sara found a lump in Ella's abdomen in June last year. After being referred to Leeds General Infirmary, Ella was diagnosed with Infant Neuroblastoma - a form of cancer.

The toddler underwent six bouts of chemotherapy until the tumour had shrunk enough to be operable and in November Ella underwent a ten-hour operation which removed 80 per cent of the cancerous tumour.

Just before Christmas, Sara and dad Keith were given the long-awaited news that their brave daughter would not need any more treatment.

After a rollercoaster seven months, Ella's proud mum and dad said it was the best Christmas present they could have asked for.

Now Keith and Sara want to nominate Ella for the Child Of The Year category in the Press's Community Pride awards.

Sara said: "The last seven months have not been easy, but now it's all behind us. During the operation, they had to leave a little bit of the tumour behind, but they said we don't need to worry about it and she won't need any more treatment.

"Doctors are never allowed to say never, but the chances are that she will grow up to lead a normal life.

"We're just so happy."

Sara, a market researcher, said that Ella, now 19-months-old, kept smiling through her treatment and she believed her little "fighter" was worthy of an award.

"From start to finish, Ella remained her usual chirpy self, nothing seemed to faze her at all.

"The moment she got home after her operation she was running around as if nothing had happened.

"She's been so strong through everything and all the family are very proud of her. She is our sparkling star."

The Press still needs more nominees for our Community Pride awards. If you know of someone who you think has made an outstanding contribution to the community, The Press would love to hear from you.

To nominate someone, simply fill in the entry form. Send in a non-returnable picture of your nominee if you can, along with a supporting statement setting out why your nominee deserves an award. Send nominations to Community Pride Awards, Paula Homer, The Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN.

Alternatively, you can email us at editor@thepress.co.uk