Boxer’s fundraiser for girl with cancer raises more than £5k

Aimee Johnstone is now looking forward to some dream trips away thanks to the efforts of Darlington local sporting hero Stuart Hall.

Stuart marked the tenth anniversary of becoming bantamweight IBF World Champion by arranging a fundraiser at the Dolphin Centre, in Darlington, last month.

The retired fighter was touched by Aimee’s story when he saw her in a wheelchair while dropping off his own daughter, Rio, at Whinfield Primary School.

He discovered that the youngster is fighting a rare type of bone cancer, Ewing sarcoma, and is due to undergo surgery this month to replace her jawbone with bone from her leg. The 10-hour operation will be followed by more chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

At the fundraising evening, paying guests heard Stuart being interviewed about his life and career by journalist Peter Barron, and a raffle was also held.

The result is that more than £5,000 has now been handed to the family, with Aimee’s mum, Jo, saying: “It means the world to us.”

Jo revealed that the family is planning to take Aimee to Edinburgh Zoo and the city’s castle when her latest round of treatment is completed.

“Then, in the summer, we’re planning our first plane holiday to somewhere nice and warm,” added Jo.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who attended on the night and everyone who donated. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. The biggest thank you goes to Stuart – he is really amazing and we're proud to call him our friend.”

Stuart said: “It was an absolute honour to do this for Aimee, and it turned into a brilliant night. It was the perfect way to mark the 10th anniversary of the world title by raising money for a very brave little girl.

“None of it would have been possible without the support of those who came out on the night, and others who donated so many raffle prizes. We all wish Aimee well, and hope she enjoys her holiday once the treatment is over.”