Inspiring Strength in the Face of Cancer
A 16-year-old girl from Ash, is transforming her cancer diagnosis into a mission of hope and compassion. Neve, who was diagnosed with a rare and life-limiting brain tumour known as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) in early 2026, is determined to make a meaningful difference for other children undergoing treatment.
Rather than focusing solely on the challenges of her diagnosis, Neve has committed herself to creating something positive that can support and uplift others facing similar circumstances.
Neve’s determination to turn a devastating diagnosis into a force for good is both powerful and inspiring. Through her fundraising, care packages, and commitment to supporting others, she is making a positive impact on the lives of children and families affected by cancer.
Her story is a reminder that even in the most difficult circumstances, it is possible to create hope, kindness, and lasting change.
Understanding DIPG: A Rare Childhood Brain Tumour
Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive tumour that develops in the brain stem, an area responsible for vital bodily functions. It most commonly affects children between the ages of five and ten and currently has no cure. Neve’s diagnosis places her among a small number of children affected by this condition each year, making awareness and research funding especially important.
A Mission to Create Something Positive
Following her diagnosis, Neve made a conscious decision to channel her energy into helping others. She has already raised more than £20,000 through fundraising efforts aimed at supporting children with cancer and their families.
Speaking about the response to BBC Surrey, Neve said:
“I am so impressed how people have come together to help me raise the money to make it happen. I want to take something that’s so negative and create something positive out of it.”
Care Packages for Children Undergoing Radiotherapy
One of Neve’s key initiatives is the creation of care packages for children receiving radiotherapy treatment. These packages are designed to provide comfort, distraction, and emotional support during a difficult time.
Each care package includes:
- A teddy bear with a handmade jumper created by Neve
- A fidget toy to help manage anxiety
- A separate package to celebrate the end of treatment
The personal element of these care packages makes them particularly meaningful, offering not just practical items but also encouragement and reassurance.
Supporting Important Charities and Research
The funds raised through Neve’s campaign are being distributed across three important causes:
- Her care package project for children undergoing treatment
- Abbie’s Army, a charity dedicated to funding research into DIPG
- Sophie’s Legacy, which supports families of children receiving hospital care
This balanced approach ensures that both immediate support and long-term research are addressed.
Community Support and Impact
Neve’s efforts have received overwhelming support from her local community and beyond. Her story has inspired people to contribute to her fundraising and spread awareness about DIPG and childhood cancer.
Speaking to BBC Surrey, her mother, Sian, shared her appreciation for the response:
“Neve wanted to do something positive to focus on. We have just been blown away. Our local community is amazing.”
This collective effort highlights the importance of community support in times of hardship and demonstrates how kindness can make a real difference.
Raising Awareness of Childhood Cancer
Neve’s journey shines a light on the realities of childhood cancer and the urgent need for continued research and support. By sharing her story, she is helping to:
- Increase awareness of rare conditions like DIPG
- Encourage fundraising for medical research
- Highlight the emotional needs of children undergoing treatment
- Inspire others to contribute in meaningful ways
How You Can Help
There are several ways individuals can support Neve’s journey:
- Donate to to her gofundme page : www.gofundme.com/f/nevies-brain-cancer-journey
- Raise awareness through sharing stories and fundraising
- Offer practical or emotional support to families in need
Every contribution, no matter how small, can have a meaningful impact.
Incredible strength and positivity, wishing Neve all the best with this amazing effort.