A Moray toddler whose fundraising campaign touched hearts across the north-east and beyond has defeated cancer and will fly to America to receive groundbreaking drugs intended to prevent it from returning.
Three-year-old Eileidh Paterson, from Forres, was diagnosed with high risk neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer, last May and has since been through a gruelling series of treatments to rid her of the disease.
Yesterday, Eileidh and her mum Gail met medics at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital, where they learned that tests taken last week showed the youngster was now cancer-free.
However, four out of five children who conquer the condition suffer a relapse – and in April Ms Paterson launched a crusade to raise £100,000 so her daughter could take part in a trial of preventative drugs in America.
The appeal smashed through its barrier earlier this month and the total is now standing at more than £125,000.
On Friday the Patersons will fly from Glasgow to Michigan, where Eileidh will begin a course of medication at the Helen DeVos children’s hospital.
Ms Paterson said she had been inundated with messages of support since announcing the outcome of the tests yesterday afternoon.
She said: “Waiting for the results has been really nerve-wracking, so hearing Eileidh was free of cancer was a huge relief.
“We went through all of Eileidh’s results and every one of them was clear, it was the best possible outcome.
“I’m so chuffed, but it’s just surreal to think we will actually be going to America – I don’t think I’ll believe it until I’m on the plane.
“Eileidh is very excited about the trip and keeps telling everyone she is going on a big plane, as she’s quite into planes and helicopters.
“Everyone is delighted and my phone has been going non-stop since we got the news.”
Over the next two years Eileidh will make eight trips to America, where she will have a week-long spell of treatment every three months.
She is taking part in a clinical trial of drugs that won’t be available in the UK until next year.
Ms Paterson added: “The trial will give her an extra chance, and we’ve heard that it produces very encouraging results.
“Those behind the programme can’t say exactly how much difference it will make, as this is its early stages, but doctors in the UK recommend it.”