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Community rallies to help terminally-ill Sheerness boy Ty with his bucket list

A terminally-ill eight-year-old with less than six months to live is crossing off his bucket list with the help of the community.

Sheerness resident Ty Rydqvisthas been receiving support from well wishers and businesses through Facebook.

My Shining Star is helping Ty Rydqvist complete his bucket list
My Shining Star is helping Ty Rydqvist complete his bucket list

The Halfway Houses primary school pupil has also had help from Rainham-based cancer charity, My Shining Star, whose founder, Anita Marinelli, spoke on the family's behalf.

The 38-year-old said: "Ty was diagnosed with leukaemia when he was only five. His family have made the heartbreaking decision to stop his treatment because he's really tired.

"I put out an appeal on Facebook asking for help from businesses and the community to help me make his remaining time amazing.

"We have been inundated with hundreds of messages and have had support with things like teepee tents, afternoon teas, and animal experiences.

"Ty loves animals and we've already had organisations like the Fenn Bell Zoo contact us offering their support."

Ty loves playing with Lego
Ty loves playing with Lego

The appeal is also supporting Ty's mum, Emma Bickerstaffe.

He is an only child and hasn't been to school in over a year. As a result, Emma has not been able to work, so money raised will also support the family financially.

Anita said: "Emma is amazing, she is so lovely and she's a brilliant mum. I don't know how she'll cope.

"Ty loves Lego and he is amazing at building it. He also loves his teddies.

"He also has a little spaniel dog called Toast - they're are like two peas in a pod."

Ty has a Spaniel, Toast, who he is inseparable with
Ty has a Spaniel, Toast, who he is inseparable with

Today Sheerness fire crew did a drive-by in their fire engine and carried out a hydrant test by his home in Coronation Road to brighten Ty's day.

Anita added: "We think the world of Ty's family. He is so loved and this whole situation is so sad.

"We're trying to arrange for him to do everything he wants and make a sort of bucket list for him to complete.

"It would be a dream come true if Ty was able to have an experience day at Port Lympne.

"So many lovely artists, photographers, and companies have offered to support Ty. We've even had opportunities for dress-up character visits at his home."

Sheerness fire crews by Ty's house in Coronation Road
Sheerness fire crews by Ty's house in Coronation Road
Fire crews testing the hydrant by Ty's house
Fire crews testing the hydrant by Ty's house

Alongside the activities arranged for Ty, so far more than £3,800 has been raised.

If you would you like donate or support Ty and his family, visit My Shining Star Facebook page here, www.facebook.com/myshiningstaruk/.

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