Laurie Engel was a smart, funny, charming, sparky, sporty boy.  He grew up in the beautiful Golden Valley in Herefordshire.  At the age of 11 he wanted to win Wimbledon, or failing that be a sports writer like his dad.  The world appeared to be at his feet. 

Then he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer.  Despite more than a year of intensive treatment, he died in September 2005, aged 13.

Laurie was treated at the Birmingham Children's Hospital, the childhood cancer centre for much of England.  The Engel family found the medical care there world-class, but the facilities and surroundings dismal.  The hospital staff are also desperate to improve things.

The Engels set up the Laurie Engel Fund to work with Teenage Cancer Trust and the hospital to ensure future patients have better conditions than Laurie did.  We have already raised well over £750,000.  The immediate plan is to build a new six-bed teenage unit costing £2 million, as an extension to the existing ward.  Building is due to begin this spring, to be completed in spring 2009.  

Thanks to the wonderful support we have had, Laurie's fund will make a large contribution to this project, which will brighten the lives of sick teenagers.  We think Laurie would be proud.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. Teenage Cancer Trust will receive your money directly and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Many thanks for your support.