Write to your MP about the underfunding of Brain Tumour Research using our template below. More details in my blog below. See our downloads page for all our available documents.
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, November 3, 2012,
Ellie's Fund Brain Tumour Trust has set up a special fundraising page for Christmas 2012.
If, rather than sending individual Christmas Cards to all your family and friends, you would like to make a donation to Ellie's Fund BTT then please use this page/click thelink below. You can then send a message to your friends to tell them you have done this and wish them a Happy Christmas!
If you would like to ask people to make a donation to Ellie's Fund BTT rather than send you a Christmas Present or ... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, August 6, 2012,
On behalf of everyone at Ellie's Fund Brain Tumour Trust I'd like to say a HUGE thank you to the following people/places for their efforts and donations: Chris Bland - 42 mile Lyke Wake run in July £314.75 Carol Towner/Pampered Chef - full day...
cooking event in June £387.58 'Jonny' and The Merchant Pub - Jonny's headshave £119.68 Graham School, Scarboro £100
And the following places for the amounts in their polybox (collection box): Jewsons, Northway The Red Lion, Cloughton The Hayburn Wyke Lot...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, February 27, 2012,
Last year I was approached by Harriet Gore - 'Kindermusik with Harriet' - who asked if it would be ok to set up a music scholarship in Ellie's name. Although she had never met Ellie, Harriet knew of her love of musicals and music and felt it was something that she would like to do.
We were very touched by this and of course said yes. What a lovely way to remember Ellie and keep her love of music alive.
Kindermusik with Harriet. Scholarship in memory of Ellie. In Harriet's words.
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, February 27, 2012,
We'd like to say thanks to some of the people who have raised money for us recently .Every penny raised really is going to make a difference to children who have a brain tumour - whether it be through a grant to them or because it is being sent to the research laboratory or to help increase awareness. Only through awareness will things begin to change.
Profuse apologies if I have missed you off this list. Please email info@elliesfund.com and I will be happy to add you to this blog.
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, December 7, 2011,
Scalby School year 11s held an immersion day at the Rugby Club in Scarborough in aid of Ellie's Fund. They organised and ran it themselves and raised £460! The news story read:
STUDENTS from Scalby School indulged in a plethora of fun activities in memory of a former classmate.
The Year 11 pupils took part in ELLIEFEST at Scarborough Rugby Club, to raise £460 for Ellie’s Fund, set up following the death of 14-year-old Ellie Othick-Bowmaker from a brain tumour last year.
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, December 7, 2011,
UPM Raflatac shapes up to donate EUR 50 000 to charity
(UPM Raflatac, Tampere, 19 November 2010) – UPM Raflatac is donating 50,000 euros through a global exercise campaign to the well-being of children and youths. The biggest individual sums will be donated to the Candlelighters association (6,000 euros) and Ellie’s Fund (5,000 euros) in Scarborough, UK, and the association ELER (5,000 euros) in Nancy, France. Globally donations are made in 13 countries.
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, November 19, 2011,
It's been a while since I've had time to write this blog - there have been some personal things going on for our family and I haven't been too well since the end of September.
I'm currently trying to update the whole website - we have some new events planned over the next year (yes - that far ahead!) so please do watch the events page which will be updated as soon as I have confirmed details for all of our events.
How your money helps - have you looked at this page yet? I've updated it today. I... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, September 14, 2011,
Here you go - a taste of the calendar. Vicky and I are Misses January! As you can see, very tastefully done - and all for an excellent cause. More details about the calendar are in the post below and to see the rest of the photos - well, you'll just have to buy one!! (Go to our shop page www.elliesfund.com/shop) Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, September 12, 2011,
We would like to invite you to join us with our launch of ‘Raise Your Hats for Research 2012’
Brain tumour research is desperately underfunded – for every £100 raised for research into cancer, only 70p is invested into brain tumour causes and cures. It is imperative therefore, to progress brain tumour research in the UK, that funds are generated through community, corporate and commercial activity to ensure the handful of brain tumour research centres that exist across the UK can carr...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, September 6, 2011,
I'm going to start off with something that's important to me - but also important to all of you; for it's about Ellie, and without her I wouldn't be writing this and you wouldn't be reading it.
Ellie should be celebrating her 16th birthday this Thursday. Unfortunately it can't be - so I am inviting all of you to join our family - in your own home - in lighting a candle for her. 'Just because'. And if you make a wish - make it that a cure or at least an effective treatment be found for brain tu... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, June 24, 2011,
There will be a new page on the site shortly, but for now I wanted you all to know how the money that YOU are donating is helping the children that we set out to help. As always: THANK YOU.
Briefly; Ellie’s Fund have so far raised over £43 000 (since March 2010). From this we have given £12 000 to the last charity that Ellie chose to support. Since we became registered in our own right, last September, we have donated £6500 to the new brain tumour research laboratory that opened in Leed...
I am going to the hospital/ward where Ellie had her operations tomorrow, for the first time since she died. My stomach is churning just thinking about it. BUT, this is for a really good cause; it's to find out how we can make sure that the paediatric oncology patients that are treated there get information about Ellie's Fund.
So it's time for me to begin a new relationship with Leeds' General Infirmary. And this time I hope, a more positive one.This time I will be giving something to the hospi... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, April 24, 2011,
Two friends who have heard all about Ellie and Ellie's Fund got together one night over a drink or two and came up with an amazing idea - 12 months of fund raising, to raise £12 000 for Ellie's Fund, ending in 2012. They aim to finish with a bang - completing the London Marathon. Their year kicks off officially today, even though a couple of events have already started; including a sponsored week of NO TV, video games, computer etc for Sarah's son Jack, and a 24 hour fast for Louise's cousin,... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, April 20, 2011,
Published on Tuesday 19 April 2011 11:49
HUNDREDS of pounds have been raised by school pupils in Derby for Scarborough charity Ellie’s Fund.
The money was donated by Scarborough girl Eleanor Sharples, who studies at Repton School.
Each year the school raises funds before dividing it among charities put forward by the pupils.
Eleanor, 16, asked if part of the money could be given to Ellie’s Fund which was set up in memory of 14-year-old Ellie Othick-Bowmaker, who died last year afte...
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, April 16, 2011,
Do you shop online?
If yes, here is a way to raise funds for Ellie’s Fund without it costing you a penny!
Give As You Live is an application that you download onto your computer – go to www.elliesfund.com/give-as-you-live . Once you have registered, you shop online as normal (no need to sign in). If your chosen retailer is registered, they will AUTOMATICALLY make a donation to the charity from your shopping. This applies to everything from your Tesco shop to West End Show tickets, hotels to... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, April 1, 2011,
On Tuesday I attended a Lobby at The House of Commons with Diane Whorton who helps 'look after' our Youth Committee. The Lobby was intended to ask our MPs to sign the Brain Tumour Manifesto, and also the Brain Tumour Care Charter, calling for early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms.
I met some more amazing people including John (not his real name), who has lived with a tumour for 8 years. He reminded very much of Ellie as she struggled with her very worst symptoms - I don't believe that anyo... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, March 27, 2011,
''STAFF at the Scarborough Evening News were dressed to impress for Wear a Hat Day in aid of Ellie’s Fund.
The fundraiser was organised by reporter Susan Stephenson (pictured third from right) who wanted to get involved after writing stories to publicise the event.
People were asked to wear a hat to work yesterday and donate at least £1 to Ellie’s Fund.
The charity was set up in memory of Scarborough teenager Ellie Othick-Bowmaker, who died last year after battling two brain tumours...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, March 25, 2011,
This photo is of the Ellie's Fund Youth Committee, with me, and the Mayor of Scarborough, Cllr Hazel Lynskey and Max Payne MBE. It was taken at The Borough's Big Thank You Awards on Wednesday night. I nominated the girls for the charity fundraising category and I'm delighted that they won.They also won the Max Payne MBE annual award, voted for by a panel of 10, the decision this year was unanimous!
These young ladies are all Ellie's friends, and they have organised events, they have run event... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, March 12, 2011,
Do you like our new look site and logo?
We've been busy working on updating all our information too - have you looked at the events page recently? Just today I've added some exciting new events to the page.
You can now follow us on Twitter too - @elliesfundinfo.
We've now got a PO Box number as well. Don't worry, if you send anything to us we still get it just as quickly, we feel that this a bit more secure for our important post.
PLEASE DON'T FORGET THAT IT'S BRAIN TUMOUR AWARENESS MONTH.
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, February 28, 2011,
Looking forwards - I received this email:
My name is Verity. I am taking part in a 24 mile running race on 5th March and would like to do so in aid of your charity. I am originally from Scarborough, and I went to Scalby School as a child. Although I didn't know Ellie, I am obviously aware of the charity in her memory and the work being done to raise money for brain tumour research and to support families.
The event in which I am taking part is called "Rudolph's Romp" (so called because it's su... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, February 7, 2011,
For Ellie from: YOUR MUM, JA, PHIL, PHOEBE & SHANNON WITH ALL OUR LOVE FOREVER Nan & Papa - our very special granddaughter with our love & pride Auntie Moira, Uncle Dean, Piper Auntie Sue, Uncle Glenn Nana Sandy, Grandad Don Helen Romans Kathryn Firth - keep twinkling Caroline Allenby - hope you enjoy your surprises from Phoebe Rumours Netball team - x2 Julieann Levell & family - a special girl, touched many a heart June Sharma & family Edmund de Gay Jane & Jon de Gay Natalie Meg Maddy Rebecca Amy A Amy S The Pi... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, January 28, 2011,
On Saturday February 5th Ellie's Fund are doing a balloon release in honour and memory of Ellie. As the first anniversary of her death approaches all too quickly, it is our way of honouring everything that Ellie was - all that she achieved - and all that is going on now to help other children in the same unfortunate position as Ellie.
We would like you to sponsor a balloon in memory of Ellie, but dedicated to whoever you would like it to be.
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, December 5, 2010,
Dedicated by: To:
Nicola Smith her Dad, Peter Emily Askham 'Nanna' Warren Hudson Ellie Othick-Bowmaker Debs Meehan Nana in Leeds, Sian and Sally M Fry dad, Brian, who died of a brain tumour Hannah Beckitt Ellie Othick-Bowmaker Sally Elwick Please light a candle for all those who wish every day for a magic time machine to give them the opportunity to say how much th... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, December 3, 2010,
Brain tumours can affect anyone: Ordinary families, living ordinary lives:
Sue Vlissidis was mum of three who bravely battled a brain tumour for a year. She died the day before her daughter's 18th birthday.
As an advisor at the Macclesfield Citizens Advice Bureau, Sue championed the rights of the community, but at home she was simply 'mum' to her three children Sophie, 11, Claire, 18, and Jack, 20.
Husband Paul, 49, said: "She didn't get to see her daughter make it to 18, but was so happy to...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, November 14, 2010,
ONLINE EXCLUSIVE - as an easyfundraising member, you get to take advantage of the Debenhams Christmas Spectacularthree days before people on the high street!
You'll find up to 25% OFF Christmas favourites plus even bigger savings on other products too! Don't forget, Debenhams offer FREE DELIVERY on everything! to t
And to help Ellie's Fund raise even more this Christmas, Debenhams have kindly increased donations to 2.5% on everything you buy.
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, November 11, 2010,
☜♡☞They shall not grow old as we who are left grow old. Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them - Lest we forget ☜♡☞ Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, November 2, 2010,
This November we're giving away not one but two great prizes!
That's right - one lucky easyfundraising member will win £250 to spend as they please with Yellow Moon AND their cause will get £500 to spend with Baker Ross!
We'll give you one entry into the free drawto thank you
every time you make a purchase through the easyfundraising site
through...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, October 20, 2010,
As well as telling everyone you know about Ellie's Fund, and inviting them
all to read the website too - here are a couple of very easy ways to raise a few
pounds for Ellie's Fund - and it won't cost you anything except a few
minutes of your time:
1)
www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/elliesfund - use this website to do
lots of the shopping that you already do online including
Debenhams - John Lewis - Argos - Halfords - Tesco direct Amazon ... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, October 13, 2010,
It's here - we got it - our charity number has arrived, and is now on our home page. (1138359)
SO, now we can begin. We can begin saving for 'Ellie's Place'. Begin helping families of children in Yorkshire who have a brain tumour or other cancer. Start making a difference; by contributing to the research centre that is about to open in Leeds, as well as all the other things....
To do all this we need YOUR help please. We still need people to hold/organise events for Ellie's Fund. We won't step ... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, October 5, 2010,
Although Ellie's Fund don't have any major events coming up just yet (we're beavering away, planning), other people are keeping their events going....
Dave Marshall sells Phoenix cards - http://www.phoenix-trading.eu/web/davemarshall/Store.php?a=79 - as well as other goods. He is offering 15% of all sales from the new catalogue to Ellie's Fund. There is also the option of holding a party, 'coffee and cards' from which we will also benefit... It's only about 79 days until Christmas, why not hav... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, September 29, 2010,
A thank you to Kianni from Scalby School. She sold some unwanted clothes and asked for donations - which she passed on to Ellie's Fund. How lovely. Thank you Kianni.
********************************************
And thank you to Scalby School who held a non-uniform day and raised over £800 for Ellie's Fund. WOW. An easy yet effective way of raising money for us.
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, September 13, 2010,
Yesterday was 'Ellie's Birthday Bike Ride' - Ellie's Fund's latest event, and the largest to date. We spent months making sure that all the arrangements were 'just so'; safety cars, first aiders, marshalls, an admin team. We spoke to the council about the use of the road, registered with the police, fire brigade, ambulance service. We discussed closing the road, but decided that all our safety plans were enough. Ellie's friends and some of their mums helped out giving out our new business car... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, September 7, 2010,
It's the day before Ellie's birthday - she would be 15 tomorrow.
We miss her so much, and think about her constantly.
A while ago someone asked me if I would ever go to see a medium/clairvoyant/psychic. I said no, because I would be going to hear about Ellie, and if I didn't, then I would be upset.
This morning I was supposed to be doing jobs around the house whilst Phoebe was at school, but Phil was running late so I gave him a lift into town for his driving theory test. I decided to do a coupl... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, September 4, 2010,
May tender memories soften your grief, May fond recollection bring you relief, And may you find comfort and peace in the thought Of the joy that knowing your loved one brought --- For time and space can never divide - Or keep your loved one from your side, When memory paints in colours true The happy hours that belonged to you.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, August 29, 2010,
Well the Futsal game yesterday went off well, and a lot of fun was had by all - the final score was 6-4, to the ..... who do YOU think won? (I'll tell you later in the week!) I'll also tell you as soon as I know what the final total raised at the game was.
On Friday Stephanie and I went to the Open Air Theatre to meet the Director to discuss something big - another teasing comment. He invited us to go to the show last night and take our collection buckets with us. We did. There were about 700 ... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, August 25, 2010,
Good morning,
I've just had a look at our website statistics page - people in 50 (FIFTY!) countries are now reading www.elliesfund.com. Goodness, that's a LOT of awareness. If everybody tells one person, and they do the same - and so on...
Maybe, just maybe we can get our MPs on side, for that is what we need now.
We need to tell our MP's. We need to get them to listen to the statistics. To hear that :
16,000 people each year in the UK are diagnosed with a brain tumour
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, August 13, 2010,
A little Angel crept quietly and set upon her Mummy's knee. She put her arms around her and said 'Mummy, don't cry for me' I am in the heavens high and watching down below, Taking care of those I love and Mum, I love you so. I'm sliding down the rainbows and playing in the stars... Waiting till that day when you can hold me in your arms ♥
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, August 7, 2010,
Until the last few days, the last few weeks have all been about the fund raising, the money - which of course is what Ellie's Fund was created for... But tonight I thought I'd share a more personal thought.
I've been asked a couple of times this week how we are all doing - I can only speak for those in this house; for of course Ellie has family and friends near and far - but I can say this for me:
I have a 'switch' that I 'found' when Ellie was diagnosed. I had to learn rapidly (within minutes o... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, August 2, 2010,
I was sent this by another 'Angel Mummy' - I can relate to a lot of it, as I'm sure others will too. I thought I'd share it with you...
~I won't say, "I know how you feel"- because I don't. I've lost parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, and pets, but I've never lost a child. So how can I say I know how you feel? ~I won't say, "You'll get over it"- because you won't. Life will have to go on. The washing, cooking, cleaning, the common routine. The chores will take your mind off your c...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, August 1, 2010,
I've just been going through the computer and found this - I thought I'd share it with you....
20th July 2007.
Dear All,
This letter is
going to a lot of people – please excuse that your copy is not addressed to you
personally, and ignore anything that is not relevant to you. I am sure you will
appreciate just how much time it would take to thank each person individually….
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, July 26, 2010,
I know that people are asking how 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' did in the charts.
Before I tell you, can I ask you to please keep spreading the word, it's unbelievable where the video is being watched around the globe. Every time it's passed on, it's raising awareness!
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, July 24, 2010,
Childhaven nursery school in Scarborough held a sponsored 'brick build' last week. £449 was raised by those 3 and 4 year olds... Abbie, a student at Filey school, near Scarborough, did a triathlon and raised £189 - she told me what she did to raise this money - I swam 4 lengths (100meters) of the pool, then went on to bike 4.2 kilometers (6 and 3/4 whole laps of Filey school) and finished off wih a run of 1600 meters (which is just over 1 mile). THANK YOU Abbie - for all your hard work for ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, July 22, 2010,
Schneider Electric Ltd have a factory in Scarborough, amongst other places. Every year the company supports a charity - this year it is the Teenage Cancer Trust.
HOWEVER, locally they are also able to give 25% of their fund raising to a charity/cause in their area. I received a letter a week or so ago to say that Scarborough have chosen Ellie's Fund this year.
BIG thanks to all at Schneider Electric Ltd, Scarborough for their efforts so far - and the £347 that is on it's way to Ellie's Fund. K... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, July 21, 2010,
On Friday July 2nd Childhaven Nursery School held a sponsored brick build for Ellie's Fund - they hold the event each year, for a different charity each time.
I've just received the last of the sponsor money in from them. 60 children age 3 and 4 have raised a total of £426-30 between them.
What a fantastic effort!
If all this fund raising gets YOU thinking, why not contact me for some ideas...(elliesfundinfo@tiscali.co.uk) I can help you to organise your own event for Ellie's Fund - or you coul... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, July 18, 2010,
Do you remember my post on June 27th - 'A prayer for Sally'? Unfortunately Sally didn't make it - she passed away a day or so later, but if you prayed for her and her family thank you.
That was the update - here's another different request...
Ellie's Fund is important for our future - but this is important NOW, TODAY...
Written by Jadi Lewis -
In February 2008 at the age of 6, my daughter Jazmine was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer (Ewings sarcoma). Prior to her diagnosis, she ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, July 17, 2010,
NEXT Friday - July 23rd - there is an open house at 15 Briardene Avenue, Scarborough.
Ellie's friends will be helping Lyn Marsh to host the event. They/we're all baking again. There will be drinks too.
A tombola - and a raffle. Prizes include Pizza Hut vouchers, an ice cream maker, cutlery sets and toys too!
Raffle tickets can be bought by calling Lyn on 01723 371747, or me on 01723 351456 or from Redz hair Salon in Scarborough. They are £1 for 5. (alternatively you could email me at elliesfund... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, July 15, 2010,
Jenna Marsh and Harriet Ritchie are ABSOLUTELY AMAZING for even attempting the Castle Foot swim. Jenna finished in 1 hour 40 mins FANTASTIC! - unfortunately the cold got the better of Harriet. For all of you who are waiting to hear - her cheeks are pink and she's talking and laughing.... GO Harriet. GO Jenna. GO...... Ellie's Fund...! You both did yourselves and Ellie proud.
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, July 14, 2010,
HAVING SEEN THE WEATHER FORECAST & SPOKEN TO PAULA, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THIS MAY NOT GO AHEAD 'TOMORROW'. WE WILL TRY EACH DAY AT THE SAME TIME IF IT CAN'T HAPPEN TOMORROW. Rain will not stop Harriet and Jenna, but 'white top' waves will. Above all else, it has to be safe for them. It would be great if you are still able to come down 'just in case' though...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, July 13, 2010,
People in the Scarborough area please make sure that THURSDAY is in your diary. THURSDAY 15TH JULY - 5pm. Jenna and Harriet (two of Ellie's close friends) are SWIMMING the Castle Foot at tea time - weather permitting. They came to me with the idea a few weeks ago and have been training hard for it since - going up to Wykeham lakes to practice in and to get used to the cold of the water. It all looks good so far...
For the benefit of people who don't know Scarborough, the Castle Foot is quite a... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, July 11, 2010,
Unfortunately Somewhere Over The Rainbow isn't in the top 40 this week.
BUT regardless of chart position it's still raising funds for brain tumour research so keep plugging. Do you know anyone who hasn't bought it - yet? We've ALL also raised awareness hugely this week. I've received messages from all over the world - people now folllowing Ellie's Fund. To everyone who has helped with 'this' project THANK YOU.
Don't go away - this is the beginning, not the end! :)
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, July 11, 2010,
OK, well - it's all over bar the counting now - nothing more we can do except either listen to the top 40 tonight or watch this space. Thanks for all your musical support. Regardless of whether we've made the charts, we've definitely made a difference. So many more people are now aware of the need for more brain tumour research then were 2 weeks ago. Even the Daily Mail are involved - I did an interview with them on Friday; it will be in the paper a week on Tuesday. (probably - date to be con... Continue reading ...
Don't take that to mean that we don't need any more song sales - we still do please!
The 'swimmingly' bit is a play on words.
People in the Scarborough area please put NEXT THURSDAY in your diary. THURSDAY 15TH JULY - 5pm. Jenna and Harriet (two of Ellie's friends) are SWIMMING the Castle Foot at tea time - weather permitting. They came to me with the idea a few weeks ago and have been training hard for it since - going up to Wykeham lakes to practice in and to get used to the cold of the water... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, July 8, 2010,
Hello Steph, I tried to send you this as a reply to your nessage, but the 'widget' wouldn't work!
Thank you for your message of support.
I think your plan to swim the length of the channel to raise money is brilliant - well done you!
If you'd like to send me some more of your details by email elliesfundinfo@tiscali.co.uk I'll be happy to chat to you more about your idea, find out more details etc - and send you sponsor forms.
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, July 6, 2010,
While we're waiting to hear how the song is doing, here is a bit more of Ellie's story...
December 1st 2008
Well, where to start? I shouldn't have left it so long to write - but we've all been pretty busy, as per usual, and I've been very tired.
Anyway - here I am.
I've got new photos - Ellie presenting cheques to 3 of her 5 charities on behalf of herself and her friends. The fundraising total is now over £8500! If you helped, and/or know others who did - PLEASE will you say a HUGE thank ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, July 6, 2010,
Things at Ellie's Fund are starting to change.....
There are now people in over 30 countries reading this website! And yesterday we had the most number of views in any one day since Ellie's Fund was set up....
I know that a lot will be following the song - but what I'd like to know is:
Would anybody consider staying on as a follower/supporter and helping out please?
There will be other events - you don't need to be in Scarborough to attend/help. You could hold your own event at the same time as w... Continue reading ...
Scalby School are on this chart - as of 6-30pm, we are NUMBER ONE!!!
How fantastic is that?!
The chart is updated hourly - PLEASE PLEASE don't stop reminding/asking all your contacts to download this week - there's still time for others to beat us if we slack off now....
Just thought you'd like to know.
By the way - Note for you all to pass on please.... make sure you're buying the song, not the album! We might be number 1 in the movers and shakers ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, July 3, 2010,
Wow - people from as far afield as Japan, Mexico, Colombia, Australia, New Zealand, UAE, are now reading www.elliesfund.com, as well as many countries in Europe too! Let's hope that you all buy the song in TWO days!!
Just click the link on the home page - it'll take you straight to it...
This morning I was at Scalby School where Calendar news filmed the group singing, and did interviews...
Brain tumour awareness is being raised by the hour!
This is so good - more and more people are becoming aware of the research that needs doing - and the funds that are required. The song/video shows the human cost of brain tumours.
Posted by Heather Othick on Wednesday, June 30, 2010,
5 days until you can buy it...!
Things are going MAD here.
Facebook has groups with over 3000 members now! 'Help get Ellie into the charts!' and 'Ellie's Fund - raising money for childhood brain tumour research.'
I've done an interview for Yorkshire Coast radio tonight - tomorrow with Jon Morgan for Radio York. Calendar news are coming to film on Friday at Scalby school - I've to be there too...
People are inundating Chris Evans fb page to play the song. It's MAD, but AMAZING. I think those of us... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, June 29, 2010,
Only SIX days until the song is released...
Can you send posts to all your MSN, Twitter, bebo, myspace contacts? Send them the link - http://www.youtube.com/user/TheScalbySchool
Message from Chris Taylor, Scalby School -
Over 2,100 people have joined the Facebook page, 'Help get Ellie into the charts' in the last three days and the youtube video has now been watched over 9,000 times.
You may have noticed on the youtube page we have received another award - for being the 78th most subscribe...
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, June 28, 2010,
OK - let's start counting down. If you haven't already done so - please pass our link - either to this site or to facebook page 'Help get Ellie into the charts' on to everyone you know.
Here's the link... http://www.youtube.com/user/TheScalbySchool
The group has over 1000 members - most in the last 24 hours - WOW the power of Facebook, eh?!
SO - MONDAY 5TH JULY - 7 days away!
Please keep spreading the word, let's sell this song into the charts and raise brain tumour awareness.....
Posted by Heather Othick on Monday, June 28, 2010,
Helene Anderson at Dare Hair salon is hosting a Virgin Vie party (at the salon) tomorrow night - all proceeds to Ellie's Fund. All you local ladies are welcome...
Heather
Don't forget you can leave messages by double clicking on the post title. Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Sunday, June 27, 2010,
This is a slightly different post - a friend of mine emailed me - here is some of her email -
''Hi Heather, We are asking everyone to please pray for my sister
in law SALLY who is on life support in Southampton after a brain op
followed by brain swelling then a heart attack then another op. She is 40 with 2
very small children, my brother is there and my mum, and her family, camping out
in the hospital now.''
Sally doesn't have a brain tumour - but I know that there are people ... Continue reading ...
THE POSTER FOR YOU TO PRINT OUT IS THE SMALL ICON AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE. DOUBLE CLICK ON IT & IT SHOULD OPEN UP FOR YOU. (Any problem... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, June 24, 2010,
In March this year, around the time that Ellie's Fund came to be - Mr Morgan at Scalby School, Scarborough (where Ellie and Phil both used to go) and his music department decided to take on a music project in memory of Ellie.
The result is 'Somewhere over the Rainbow/Wonderful World' performed by staff and pupils. It's really lovely - makes me shiver every time I listen to it (I've been involved in some of the idea crunching).
Posted by Heather Othick on Thursday, June 24, 2010,
I'm on my way out to collect Phoebe from nursery, but come back later today to read about
'Somewhere over the Rainbow/Wonderful World' recorded by Scalby School staff & pupils and available for download on July 5th 2010.
Later I'll tell you why we're asking everyone to buy it in that same week, how we hope it will help others - and asking you all to spread the word too....
Posted by Heather Othick on Tuesday, June 15, 2010,
We're going to have a table at Scalby Fair this Saturday, from noon - we'll be selling more cakes, have books, CDs, ribbons - and, for the first time, we'll be tellling people about a big idea we have for raising awareness. Why not come along and find out more....?!
Also - next week, June 24th, 'Take a Break' are running Ellie's story - it's in issue 26.
On Saturday Ellie's friends spent the day packing bags at Marks & Spencer.
Last night they brought me £309 to pay in to Ellie's Fund. Wow - well done girls!
I know they worked VERY hard - they actually raised twice this amount but half went to Macmillan. Comments on their Facebook pages later told of how tired they all were, especially after Friday too.
This morning I paid £838 into the account - the extra came from the leftover cakes and the leg waxing.
Posted by Heather Othick on Saturday, June 5, 2010,
I'm delighted to be able to tell you that the coffee morning seems to have been a success.
Having counted up there is £441 from the event.
It was a lot of hard work pulling it all together - there was a lot of help from a lot of lovely people - THANK YOU to all of you. A special thank you to Lyn, who stepped in and helped at the very last minute (my mum was poorly and couldn't make it) To everyone who donated prizes/books/gifts - thank you. To our wonderful musicians who played/sang so beaut... Continue reading ...
Firstly - apologies to anybody who came down to the harbour on Saturday. Unfortunately Josie was not well enough to set sail as planned - the nature of this awful disease.
I found this out when I logged in to my emails at about 12-45pm, so I didn't have much opportunity to let people know. I did send out texts to those I knew were coming down but I couldn't do much more - sorry. On the bright side, the sun was shining so I hope you had an enjoyable afternoon, and maybe an ice cream if you were... Continue reading ...
Well, Josie and Roger sailed in to a very sunny Scarborough last night. I've had an email to say that my phone call to Yorkshire Coast Radio has paid off - Roger will be doing an interview while they're here. This is great - more awareness for Brain Tumour Research (registered charity number 1093411), Ali's Dream and Ellie's Fund - all ultimately fighting for the same cause.
Josie and Roger will have lunch tomorrow at the Yacht Club before preparing to leave Scarborough Harbour at 2-30pm.
At the end of 2008 Josie was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour and given less than 2 years to live.
Josie is currently quite well, and on May 15th she and her husband Roger (who has links with the Pindar (print) family from Scarborough) are setting sail around Britain, to raise brain tumour awareness. They will berth in Scarborough next week and DEPART ON SATURDAY 22ND MAY AT 2-30PM.
I am trying/hoping to get as many as you lovely people as poss... Continue reading ...
Before I tell Ellie's story from this time last year I'd like to say that the coffee morning is just looking better and better. We now have someone to paint your little darling's face, and what is shaping up to be a great tombola - prize donations still welcome though, thank you. Also, if anyone wants rid of any second hand books we will have a book table too. Contact me and I'll collect them from you.
I'm finding it quite tough emotionally to actually do all of this - the memories of fund rai... Continue reading ...
Well, I've been to Stoneacre Ford this morning and the arrangements for FRIDAY 4TH JUNE are all coming together nicely. It's going to be quite exciting! There'll be tea and coffee, and juice/squash for the children. I'm trying to organise someone to come along and paint faces too. There's going to be a colouring competition - wonder what the prize will be? And a tombola, of course.
Ellie's friends will be helping with all of this as well as helping you to a table with your choice of drink, and ... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, April 30, 2010,
Hi again, The coffee morning is now confirmed as FRIDAY JUNE 4TH FROM 10AM UNTIL 12 NOON. WHERE IS IT? I hear you cry.
It will be at the Stoneacre Ford showroom on Seamer Road - just before you get to the park and ride site.
Ellie's friends have offered their time to be your waitresses for the morning. There will be tea, coffee, juice for the children (it's in the school holidays), cakes & biscuits.
We're having a tombola (can anyone donate prizes please? contact me on 351456) - 'guess how many sw... Continue reading ...
Posted by Heather Othick on Friday, April 23, 2010,
Since my last post quite a lot has happened.
Back at the beginning of the year Ellie was nominated for a 'Local Hero' award. 'Child of Achievement' was the category. Last Friday night Jason and I were invited to the presentation dinner on Ellie's behalf. It was an emotional evening for us from the beginning.
Anyway, Ellie won her category. But then she also won the 'Ultimate Local Hero' award too. When Ellie's name was read out every person in the room rose to their feet and gave her a standing... Continue reading ...
Proud mum of 3; I brought Phil and Ellie up alone after their Dad and I spilt up in 1996. I later met Jason and he moved in with the 3 of us in 2002.
We've been married since 2004 and have a daughter together.
I worked for 17 years in a bank until I left to have my youngest. She was born with a cleft lip and palate and research into helping her communicate led me to buying a franchise for TinyTalk, baby sign language classes. Ellie was a big part of that - coming to classes when she was on chemo; she loved helping out. I pressed pause on the business in August 2008 to become Ellie's full time carer.
Whilst I was at the bank I was the regional charity fund raising organiser - so when Ellie asked to raise funds to 'give something back' I had an idea where to start. She had a natural flair for it - and together we have helped to raise over £25 000, starting in June 2007 when local people raised £4000 in one night for us to have a family holiday.
I am extremely proud of all my children, and my family; how they all handled Ellie's illness.
And very proud to be Jason's wife. Through all of this he has been my rock.
This photo is of the Ellie's Fund Youth Committee, with me, and the Mayor of Scarborough, Cllr Hazel Lynskey and Max Payne MBE. It was taken at The Borough's Big Thank You Awards on Wednesday night. I nominated the girls for the charity fundraising category and I'm delighted that they won.They also won the Max Payne MBE annual award, voted for by a panel of 10, the decision this year was unanimous!
Proud mum of 3; I brought Phil and Ellie up alone after their Dad and I spilt up in 1996. I later met Jason and he moved in with the 3 of us in 2002.
We've been married since 2004 and have a daughter together.
I worked for 17 years in a bank until I left to have my youngest. She was born with a cleft lip and palate and research into helping her communicate led me to buying a franchise for TinyTalk, baby sign language classes. Ellie was a big part of that - coming to classes when she was on chemo; she loved helping out. I pressed pause on the business in August 2008 to become Ellie's full time carer.
Whilst I was at the bank I was the regional charity fund raising organiser - so when Ellie asked to raise funds to 'give something back' I had an idea where to start. She had a natural flair for it - and together we have helped to raise over £25 000, starting in June 2007 when local people raised £4000 in one night for us to have a family holiday.
I am extremely proud of all my children, and my family; how they all handled Ellie's illness.
And very proud to be Jason's wife. Through all of this he has been my rock.
