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 were also desperate to improve things.
The Engel family 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. A spacious, state-of-the-art six-bed unit has now been completed and the first patients moved in in February 2010.
We started out hoping to raise £10,000; we've now reached over £1.1 million. Thanks to the wonderful support we have received, Laurie's fund has made a large contribution to this £2.5m project, making a huge difference to the lives of the teenagers treated there. We know 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 help.
