Millie’s Disney dream has touched so many

Millie Moran with gran Vicky Shaw and mum Heather Clarke

KINDHEARTED Oldhamers are rallying to conjure up some Disneyland magic for brave battler Millie Moran.

Since the Chronicle revealed how her gran Vicky Shaw had vowed to send her on the holiday of a lifetime when the resilient four-year-old came back from the brink of death last year, dozens of local businesses and residents have pitched in to help.

Vicky's appeal to help give little Millie - who has endured more than 30 operations after being born with a rare form of spina bifida and hydrocephalus and suffers from epilepsy, chronic lung disease and is paralysed from the waist down - a dream holiday to Florida really touched readers' hearts.

Just over 12 months ago Millie almost died from a life-threatening lung infection. When she recovered Vicky (47), from Springhead, promised her Frozen-loving granddaughter she'd do everything she could to take her to Disneyland.

Vicky has been saving and selling her own possessions to fulfil her promise.

But as infection-prone Millie needs to be intensive care free for 12 months, time is of the essence and she still needs all the help she can get to reach her £10,000 target which would pay for Millie, her mum Emma Clarke and nurse to accompany them on the trip.

In just four weeks the fund has reached £2,188 and a charity ball has been organised at St Herbert's Parish Centre, in Chadderton, on September 30 with the committee which run the hall kindly waiving the venue fee. Oldham compere and auctioneer Michael Bradshaw is also hosting the "Millie's Dream" event - which includes a three-course meal, bingo, auction and raffle - for free.

INKcomparable printers, in Waterhead, have designed and printed all the posters, tickets and menus at minimal cost and S&S Pallet Services, in Derker, picked up the bill.

Vouchers and prizes have been donated by a host of local businesses including Beyond Beauty, in Royton; Slender World and Claire's Hairdressers, in Lees; Friday's Chippy, in Springhead; Face and Body, in Grotton, and Pamper Your Princess, in Shaw.

Springhead parish councillor, Steven Hewitt, is arranging a fun day along with Springhead Football Club to boost funds and the local Costcutter, in Carr House Road, has set up a charity box with local shoppers raising almost £100 by donating their change.

Photographer Sharon Graham Photography, in Failsworth, has offered to take memento pictures of Millie at the charity ball and Howard's Domestics, in Shaw, gave a generous cash donation.

"Emma and I been overwhelmed by the response from people," said Vicky.

"It's been amazing and people have been very supportive, particularly small local businesses. I can't thank them enough.

"The ball is going to be a fantastic event and we're selling tickets fast so get in touch if you'd like to reserve some. We're still looking for raffle prizes though if anyone can donate anything."

Millie is waiting to go into St Mary's Hospital to have a bowel operation - just one of the many she's had to endure during her short life.

"I'm dreading it," said Vicky.

"Millie's aware of what it's all about and what she has to go through now so she really doesn't want to go in. I'm upset for her.

"Otherwise she's well and enjoying going to school."

If you can help out with donations and you wish to buy tickets for "Millie's Dream" charity ball call 07957732536