A charity set up in memory of a teenager who died from a brain tumour is supporting the career of a paediatric nurse who has suffered a tragedy.

Amber Selvey, from Seasalter, has been awarded £5,000 by the Evie Dove Foundation to help her pursue a degree in counselling, coaching, and mentoring.

It is also a cause deeply personal to her, as she has also faced unimaginable traged, having lost both a son and her husband to Alagille syndrome - a rare, inherited genetic disorder that primarily affects the liver.

Her funding was raised through the charity started by the parents of Evie, from Worth near Sandwich, who died aged 13 in March 2022.

It aims to help sick children and save young lives by sponsoring the education and training of paediatric clinical professionals.

In a little over three years, the foundation has raised £350,000, largely through its popular sponsored walks, bike rides and its Christmas raffle.

The proceeds have so far funded the further education of 170 health professionals.

Amber, who works at both the Kent and Canterbury Hospital and the QEQM at Margate, said: “After the birth of my second child, who was diagnosed with a cardiac condition later identified as Alagille Syndrome, I witnessed firsthand the critical importance of high-quality medical care.

“This rare genetic condition not only impacted his life but also the lives of two of my other children.

“Tragically, my son passed away just over a year ago, preceded by his father, and both losses highlight the immense challenges faced by families navigating complex medical journeys.

“These personal experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the care and compassion that healthcare professionals can provide.

“They also highlighted areas where services can and must improve. I bring a unique dual perspective to my nursing practice, balancing professional expertise with personal insight.”

Evie’s mum, Katie, says the charity is keen to support Amber’s application because she has dedicated more than two decades to children’s nursing across east Kent, and her commitment has touched countless lives.

“Her passion for paediatric care is deeply personal, shaped not only by her professional experiences but also by her journey as a mother,” she said.

“This course will equip her with vital skills to support children and young people with long-term mental health conditions, particularly those navigating the complex relationship between physical and emotional health.

“Unfortunately, due to complications with funding eligibility, Amber is currently only able to access financial support for the final year of her course. So we’re proud to support her through this challenge by contributing £5,000 towards her tuition.”

Amber is currently based at the Rainbow Ward at the QEQM Hospital in Margate but has also worked at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital.

The Evie Dove Foundation’s next fundraiser is its Big Bike Ride - a 28-mile cross-country, off-road route starting and finishing at Barham Village Hall.

For more information visit www.theeviedovefoundation.org.