In a heart-warming display of compassion and solidarity, a group of talented dancers from Regency Dance School took centre stage at Newington School’s Christmas Fair to organise a special stall, rallying the local community to raise funds for four-year-old Brooklyn Bain, who is courageously battling a terminal brain tumour.
Brooklyn’s journey began on October 13 when he was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Glioma (DIG), an aggressive childhood cancer affecting the brain stem. The news has shaken the community but amidst the heartache the dancers at Regency Dance School, which Brooklyn is a member of, decided to take action.
At the Newington School Christmas Fair, the compassionate young dancers set up a stall where they collected donations and sold their own toys. The result was nothing short of remarkable, as they successfully raised an inspiring £375.90.
The funds raised will address immediate needs such as hospital food and travel costs for the family, ensuring Brooklyn’s siblings can maintain a sense of routine. Money will also be contributed to future costs, including modifications to their Ramsgate home, medical equipment, and family outings. Importantly, it will also go towards creating lasting memories for Brooklyn, offering moments of joy and respite during this challenging time.
Brooklyn has been undergoing radiotherapy treatment at The Marsden, a crucial effort to pause the tumour’s growth and provide the family with more time to spend with him. Despite the challenges, Brooklyn’s infectious personality, love, and kindness have left an indelible mark on those who know him.
Brooklyn’s mum Leanne said: “I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for donating towards this cause.”
Leanne and her family are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and are hopeful that Brooklyn’s treatment will provide them with as much time together as possible.
A spokesperson from Regency Dance School said: “Leanne, Brooklyn, and her family have been so incredibly brave, and anything we can do to support and make this time special and stress-free is appreciated.”
For those who wish to contribute to Brooklyn’s cause, donations can be made directly at https://www.gofundme.com/f/brooklyn-and-family
Family friend Zahra Tarjomani, who is a co-owner of the Granville, has organised a Christmas show fundraiser to help support the family with costs for travel and for when Brooklyn returns home.
The fundraising show, Christmas at the Granville, takes place on November 30, from 5pm and includes music and mulled wine.
All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the family.
No tickets are needed but people are asked to make a donation on the door.