By Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
A seven-year-old boy with leukaemia is heading with his family to a dream holiday to Disneyland thanks to the kindness of a charity inspired by Southport girl Elsie Dot Stancombe.
Families flocked to support William’s Fundraiser as it took place at The Hub in Banks on Sunday (9th February 2025).
They arrived to find fun from Dr Dave’s Entertainment; bouncy castles from Banks Bouncy Castles; face painting; glitter tattoos; a mega raffle; tombolas; and more.
Organisers said: “William is a very brave and happy seven year old boy.
“He was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in December 2021.
“William has always wanted to go to Disneyland with his family.”
Among them were the family of Elsie Dot Stancombe, the seven-year-old who was among three young girls tragically killed in the Southport tragedy last July.
They said: “On Sunday we had the privilege of meeting an incredibly brave little boy, William, and his family. William was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2021. His dream has always been to visit Disneyland, and we wanted to make that dream a reality.
“An event was being held to raise funds for his trip. The Elsie’s Story team visited the event and presented William and his family with a cheque to cover all costs of the trip and spending money.
“After meeting him, I couldn’t think of a more deserving little boy.
“William, you have been a warrior, and your mum, dad, and little sister have stood strong beside you.
“We hope you enjoy your trip, you deserve it!
“A huge thank you to Tui UK and the Disney Reps for donating a Disney box for both William and his sister, full of lovely goodies ready for their trip.
“A huge thank you to our amazing Elsie Story Artist @dionysus_mionysus for the beautiful sketch
“We are spreading smiles as big as Elsie’s.”
When they launched Elsie’s Story last year, Jenni and Dave Stancombe said: “We want to continue Elsie’s ‘story’; her positivity, love for others and energy of life…..
“The Trust has been established with the principle objective being to make grants to causes in Elsie’s name, the focus of which will be assistance to young people and support for others in the community and across the region.
“This will include community projects, medical care and support for individuals and families, good causes involving fun, and bringing the community together.”
“’Elsie’s Story’ is a Charitable Trust, incorporated on the 3rd October 2024 in the name of our daughter Elsie Dot Stancombe who we lost so tragically in the Southport attack in July 2024.”
“Elsie was the most caring and generous little girl and we have promised to not let this awful tragedy be in vain and creating this trust is the start of this.”
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
