A NEWPORT fundraiser is planning a charity walk and fun day after being inspired by a local youngster battling a brain tumour.

Mark Fredrickson, 35, of Ringland, has organised the walk around the lake at Tredegar Park in aid of children’s cancer charity Latch after meeting Newport youngster Lenamay Edwards following a previous fundraiser.

Mr Fredrickson was so inspired by Lenamay and her story, he has now organised ‘Lap for Latch’ at which the Maesglas Primary pupil will be the special guest and will start the walk.

Lenamay, nine, of Gaer Vale, was first diagnosed with a brainstem glioma in November 2005 and had treatment until September 2007 which worked.

Following that she had regular scans and it was sadly discovered in April this year that the tumour had grown back.

Lenamay, who is partially sighted in her left eye and deaf in her left ear because of the condition, began 18 months of chemotherapy in April. This requires her to visit the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, for a couple of nights every week for three weeks at a time.

The Argus previously reported how Mr Fredrickson raised £2,440 to buy toys and gifts for the children at the cancer and leukaemia wards at the Cardiff hospital.

Following the visit, Lenamay’s mum Sarah contacted Mr Fredrickson to thank him for his efforts. Mr Fredrickson met up with the mum and daughter and a new friendship was born.

Mrs Edwards said: "It’s great that Mark is doing this. Lenamay is very excited about the event."

Mr Fredrickson said: "I was choked when I visited the cancer ward. I found the children so inspirational. I want to help Lenamay and the children like her."

Special guests to star at event

'Lap for Latch' will take place at Tredegar Park on October 14 with the walk starting at 11.30am.

Entertainment which includes live music, sports displays, a replica of ‘Lightning McQueen’ from Disney movie ‘Cars’, stalls and refreshments will continue until 6pm.

There will also be special guest appearances from Newport County players as well as boxing champions Andrew and Lee Selby and Sean McGoldrick.

The registration fee for the walk is £5 per adult, £3 per child and £10 for a family of four. Under threes are free.

Anyone wanting to take part in the walk, perform at the event or who is interested in having a stall at £20 per pitch is asked to contact Mr Fredrickson on 07557446927 or at helpourcancersufferers@yahoo.com Alternatively you can visit the ‘Lap for Latch’ Facebook page.