YOUNG dancers in Hamilton have banded together to raise funds for a research project in support of a Bishopbriggs schoolgirl, who has been treated for a brain tumour. 

Pupils at Valerie Brown School of Dance and Drama wore Christmas hats to their classes all last week in their fundraising efforts for Brain Tumour Research.

Glasgow Times:

The school’s principal, Valerie Brown, is godmother to 11-year-old Kirsty MacAskill, from Bishopbriggs, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour as a toddler.

Valerie said: “My beautiful goddaughter Kirsty has been fighting a brain tumour since she was just two years old. 

"She has gone through so much in her short life from brain surgery and cancer treatment to try to prevent the tumour from growing. 

"I have been friends with Kirsty’s mum Fiona since we were at high school together and I am in awe of how the family has dealt with everything. Raising money to help prevent other families going through similar ordeals is the least I can do to show my support.”

Glasgow Times:

Kirsty’s shock diagnosis came in January 2012, after nursery staff noticed she was walking with a limp. 

Unfortunately, Kirsty’s chemotherapy wasn’t effective and by Easter 2012 she was struggling with her swallow and balance. 

Another CT scan revealed that she had cysts around the tumour and the tumour was continuing to grow. For the next few months, she was in and out of hospital having treatment to try to prevent the build-up of fluid and manage her symptoms.

Glasgow Times:

Valerie added: “We’ve had so much fun getting involved in Wear A Christmas Hat Day. 

"My adults, whose classes are taking place via Zoom, got involved virtually and the kids were so excited to come into class wearing festive hats. 

"After such a difficult year, it was lovely to end the term with something fun, all while raising money for this vital cause."