Family of boy, 14, who fell critically ill smash fundraising target in just one night

Helen Banks and her family held a charity night at Metrovicks Rugby Club on Friday November 18, which raised £2,690.

The funds are to go to Ronald McDonald House, which provides free 'home away from home' accommodation to families with children receiving treatment in the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool.

Sadly, Helen had to use the service after her 14-year-old son fell critically ill during the summer. He was in a coma for two weeks and in hospital for five weeks. During this “devastating and terrifying” time, a member of his family could always be by his side, thanks to Ronald McDonald House.

So Helen pledged to raise £2,500 over the next six months in a bid to help other families going through a traumatic experience.

Friday was the family’s first big fundraising push but they managed to smashed their six-month target in just one night, with Manchester United, Manchester City FC, Sale Sharks and dozens of businesses offering prizes for a bumper auction and raffle.

Helen said: “I would like to say thank you to everyone that has supported me over the last four months during this devastating time. I have had so much support from family and friends which I will never forget.

“I would especially like to thank all the dedicated staff at Alder Hey and MRI children’s hospital, who saved my son’s life, and all the staff at Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey.

“I would like to thank all the managers at Quality Save especially John, Mandy and Zoe for making this happen.

“My final thank you is for my sisters Pat and Kathryn, my friends Sharon, Julie and Louise, and my mother-in-law Penny, who are my rocks.

“My two beautiful children who have been through so much and never complained.

“Also Mrs Webster and Mrs Mottram, from Ashton on Mersey School, who have been so supportive.”

You can still make a cash donation at justgiving.com/fundraising/Helen-Banks6.