WHEN little Charlotte Jackson was diagnosed with an acute form of leukaemia just before her fourth birthday, her mother Sarah says her world fell apart.

But nearly a year later Charlotte, who lives with her mum in Ferndown, is responding well to treatment and is inspiration for a new campaign to help other local children battling blood cancer.

“Charlotte had been unwell for some time,” explains Sarah.

“But I was assured it was probably a virus, so when they finally diagnosed her with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia a year ago – six months after I lost my dad to cancer – I was in a state of disbelief.”

The shock of the diagnosis caused Sarah, who is in her early 40s, to develop alopecia (hair loss).

But thanks to the support of friends, family, local church and charities like Leaf (Leukaemia Education & Fundraising) Sarah says she is now able to face the future.

“I’ve been overwhelmed by the prayers, love, kindness and support of everyone and want to give something back by raising awareness and funds for the amazing organisations and charities.”

Staff and pupils at Charlotte’s school, Oakhurst First in West Moors, have signed up for what’s now known as Team Charlotte.

School secretary Helen Stevens is taking part in a Mount Kilimanjaro Trek for CLIC Sargent next year, and aims to raise £5,000.

The children are trekking around the school field (up to 20 laps) on May 22, which Charlotte will take part in.

Sarah adds: “Charlotte is always so brave and cheerful even though it’s still early days.

“But although we don’t know what the future holds, we do know these amazing charities and org-anisations are making real differences to people’s lives – they’ve certainly made a massive difference to ours!”

For information on Team Charlotte, you can visit charlottemummyandleukaemia on Facebook.