Fundraiser for funeral of 11-year-old Mansfield boy who “touched the hearts of everyone fortunate to know him”

Staff at Stubbin Wood School in Shirebrook are hoping to raise £2,000 towards a memorial service for pupil George Appleyard who died on June 11 after battling multiple health issues.

George, who endured 118 operations in his life battled several complex conditions including severe acquired hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and global developmental delay.

In spite of his conditions brave George, who also suffered three cardiac arrests and two strokes, faced his battles with courage and humour.

Nicola Lafferty, a teaching assistant at Stubbin Wood said: “George loved life, his family and was a big fan of Christmas and dressing up as different characters

“He was the most funny, loving, happy boy despite all his disabilities.”

Nicola has set up a JustGiving fundraising page in a bid to raise money towards the youngsters funeral.

Nicola added: “On Thursday 11th June Georges family was torn apart when they had to make the devastating decision to turn off his ventilator after getting the heartbreaking news that there was nothing doctors could do to save him.

“He leaves behind his amazing mum and dad, twin sister plus older siblings too as well as a wider circle of family and friends who all absolutely adored him beyond measure.

“Our George had the biggest smile and the cheekiest eyes which never missed a trick and the most infectious laugh especially when he was playing tricks on people or joining in with his classmates.

“George`s family shouldn`t be going through this at all as it was very unexpected. Even though George had multiple and profound difficulties he was healthy and strong and despite hundreds of surgeries always bounced back smiling.

"George touched the hearts of everyone fortunate to know him. He should still be with us in school making us laugh, playing tricks on us with his favourite spiders and enjoying the day to day antics and atmosphere we so lovingly created for our students.”

All money raised will go towards funeral costs.

Nicola added: “We want to have a farewell filled with love, warmth, laughter and joy that George brought to all our hearts and lives and to give George the best and most perfect resting place for our very own Gruffalo loving boy.

“We are asking for your support no matter how big or small to help his parents make this happen. Your kindness and generosity during this incredibly painful time would mean the absolute world to Georges beautiful family.”

To donate click here