You may already be aware that this June, we are organising a Charity Dance Show involving some of our senior groups. We would like to take this opportunity to let you know the reasons behind putting it on and make you aware of the charities that we will be raising money for.

 As some of you may know, on the 3^rd May 2014, the weekend of The Elizabeth School of Dance ‘AM2PM’ show, Daisy Brooks, a student of ours, who should have been taking part in the dance show that weekend, was diagnosed with an incurable DIPG brain tumour. Daisy was a very happy and loveable child who went on to be extremely brave. In July 2014, Daisy and her family travelled to Bristol where she underwent pioneering brain surgery. Her bravery has enabled a huge step forward in finding a cure for DIPG. Beautiful Daisy got her Angels wings at 3.20 am on 17th November 2014. She passed away having spent her 7th birthday the day before surrounded by loved ones and left in peace shortly afterwards. Daisy’s family and friends continue to raise money towards this same surgery so that one day we can find a cure for DIPG.

For more information on Daisy’s story and the work her charity do, visit www.fordaisyanddipg.com

You may also be aware that on the 7th June 2014, a brain tumour took the life of Arran Tosh. Many students from The Elizabeth School of Dance were friends of Arran and his family of which his story is devastating. Arran was an active, happy, busy, fit, healthy, fun and charming teenager with an amazing smile! Intermittent head and neck ache led to a doctor appointment where a routine eye test highlighted immense pressure in Arran’s head. A scan revealed a brain tumour and 5 days later, after emergency surgery and spending time in a coma, Arran departed from this world.

Simultaneously, The Smile of Arran Trust was born in an effort to continue the selfless fundraising that Arran already started, busking with his guitar on the streets of Sudbury and planning to shave his head in an effort to raise money for Cancer Research UK. The trust aims to provide help for people with brain tumours, especially children and teens. It also provides crucial funds for cancer research, treatments and facilities in a bid to finally rid the world of this cruel disease. The trust also supports HCPT, the pilgrim trust that Arran was so keenly involved with.

Unfortunately it is quite likely that at some point in your life you will hear the terrible news that a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer. Having lost a close family friend to Cancer, as well as the two inspiring children above, last year, I am sadly aware of the stress and upset this causes to those who have received the diagnosis, as well as their loved ones watching on at their suffering. Witnessing how brave people can be when faced with this terrible disease has inspired us to also donate to Cancer Research UK.

We hope that many of you will be able to attend our show so that we can raise lots of money for these three amazing charities. The show is taking place on Saturday 20^th June 2015. There will be two performances, 2.30pm and 6.30pm and tickets are now on sale and available to purchase from The Empire Theatre Box office on 07778 025490. Lines open 12pm-10pm.

Many thanks,

Becki Carey and the Elizabeth School of Dance Team