Fundraising continues for Telford five-year-old battling rare form of leukaemia

Though recent tests have shown Liam Finazzi is currently free of leukaemia, his family says he is still on a long road of treatment.

He has now suffered brain damage as a result of a recent virus and remains receiving treatment, though has recently moved from Birmingham Children's Hospital to the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

Liam was diagnosed with leukaemia in December, just weeks after his fifth birthday.

He lives in Malinslee, Telford, with his eight-year-old brother Callum and parents Andy, who worked as a sales manager for a magazine, and Kerry, who worked for CapGemini.

His family have had to give up their jobs to care for him while he undergoes intensive treatment, and had been by his side since he was diagnosed.

They have been updating people on his progress under the tag line of Team Liam, which has taken on the penguin, Liam's favourite animal, as its symbol.

Andy said: "Unfortunately Liam contracted 3 cold viruses as he had a comprised immune system due to the side effects of the chemotherapy.

"One of the viruses has spread to his brain and has left him with brain damage.

He's had to stop any form of chemotherapy as his consultants don't know if he would survive it due to his brain damage.

"Fortunately his latest tests have shown that Liam is currently leukaemia free, however it may return at any time.

"As a result we have been transferred to the PRH with a view to consider the next steps of his rehabilitation as he is currently unable to walk, speak, eat or drink."

Thousands of pounds has already been raised to support Liam and his family through treatment.

But his family say they will still need to make changes in order to adapt their home life.

Andy added: "We have got a specially adapted wheelchair, however we will need to get a wheelchair accessible vehicle as his wheelchair does not fold down.

"There is a possibility that we may get him home if and when he's well but adaptations will need to be made to accommodate him."

A fundraising ball is set to be held to help with the campaign next month, specifically to help the family to get a mobility car to help with Liam's wheelchair. .

The event will be held at The Shropshire Golf Club in Muxton on June 10.

At the event there will be a DJ, hog roast and raffle prizes up for grabs.

Organiser Emma Tipton is encouraging people to book tickets and is also looking for Telford businesses to help with sponsorship.

Anyone who wants to contact Emma to offer support should call 07790349342. A Facebook page has been set up to share updates on Liam’s progress, facebook.com/Liam-Finazzi-My-Battle-Against-Burkitt-Leukemia-737124116446702.

To donate to the family visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LiamFinazziIWillBeatLeukmia