CHILDREN, groups and an entire community have come together to support the family of a nine-year-old boy who is battling leukaemia for a second time.
Henry Shafto, from Frampton Cotterell (pictured above, left, with his friend Fred Howes), underwent three years of chemotherapy before being given the all-clear from the disease in 2022.
However he suffered a relapse in December and was admitted to the Bristol Children’s Hospital, where he and his family have been spending day and night while he receives treatment.
An online GoFundMe page set up to support Henry’s family while they take time away from work had raised more than £31,000 by the start of April.
Frampton Cotterell Rugby Club held a Minis Festival in support of Henry, who is a keen player for the club, raising £5,000.
Their fundraising effort gained even more momentum when the hashtag #SquadUpForHenry began circulating among rugby clubs, gaining the backing of Premiership side Bristol Bears.
Family friends say Henry has faced a number of infections, and the love and support from his friends and the wider community has been a huge encouragement.
Children at his school, Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary, have raised more than £1,200.
Some of Henry’s close school friends organised a cake sale at school, raising £625.
Pupils then held a fun day on March 6 (above), running their own stalls, including a tombola, toy sale, outdoor games, a book stall, face painting and craft activities. The event raised almost £600.
Donations were also received from businesses including Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and the Co-Op.
A ‘Brave the Shave’ event is planned for April 11 at The Globe pub.
Frampton Cotterell school head teacher Deborah Fisher said: “The compassion shown by the children has been remarkable.
“They have worked so hard to support their friend, and their fundraising efforts reflect the kindness and sense of community that we are so proud to see in our school.”
The GoFundMe page has been set up by Pete Allaker, who wrote: “Henry is a brave, kind, and much-loved little boy who is currently facing the toughest battle of his life.
“After everything he and his family have already endured, Henry, at the age of nine, has sadly suffered a relapse of leukaemia and is now very unwell.
“Henry’s world, and that of his parents and little brother Tommy, has been turned upside down once again.
“His parents are spending long, exhausting days and nights at the hospital, taking turns sleeping by Henry’s side so that he is never alone.
“During this incredibly difficult time, Henry’s parents are unable to work. Their focus is, quite rightly, entirely on being there for their children – providing comfort, love, and strength when it is needed most.
“We are raising money to help ease some of the financial pressure they are facing, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: being together as a family and supporting Henry through his treatment and recovery.”
Funds raised will go towards supporting Henry’s parents with day-to-day costs while they are unable to work, hospital travel, practical expenses and “something positive” for the family to look forward to.
Donations can be made at gofund.me/8a078f507.
More details of the ‘Brave the Shave’ will be shared on local social media groups.