SOPHIE ATAY APPEAL

Early day motion 2068, tabled 15 October 2009 by David Anderson (Labour). Signed by 18 members.

That this House supports Whickham School's 2009 annual charity week, led by co-chairs Jess Emmerson and Sarah Bilton and vice-chairs Lucy Zwolinska and Andrew Gallagher which aims to raise money for the Sophie Atay Appeal; notes that two year old Sophie has been diagnosed at a high risk stage of a rare and aggressive form of cancer called Neuroblastoma; further notes that this cancer has survival rates as low as 20 per cent.; that her family have found a hospital in New York where the chances of survival could soar to between 80 and 90 per cent.; applauds the students' initiative in devising a wide variety of fundraising ideas including a Sing for Sophie battle of the bands, tuck shops, car washes, t-shirt sales, a curry night and an X-Factor style competition running with special guest Big Brother's Charlie Drummond judging the final; and wishes all those involved great success in raising money for this vital cause.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, DUP 3, Conservative 1, Independent 1, Liberal Democrat 1.