It’s time to join the fight and go orange in support of Ollie’s Army! Independent owner of children’s clothing store, Little Betty’s Boutique, in Hazel Grove is encouraging local businesses across Stockport and the rest of South Cheshire to raise money for the cause.
Owner Emma Breen was moved after meeting Lucy Carroll and hearing Ollie and Amelia’s story and wanted to host an event in order to raise much needed awareness and funds for research into Battens Disease.
The event will raise funds to support Ollie and Amelia Carroll from Poynton, Stockport. A glamorous charity ball has been organised for Sunday the 19th of November at Marple Golf Club, with tickets at just £10 per person.
Ollie’s Army charity was started in 2015 by Lucy and Mike Carroll following the diagnosis of their son Ollie with the extremely rare and fatal disease Battens Disease.
Battens Disease is a genetic disease which damages cells in the brain causing the person to suffer progressive neurological impairment. The brain is unable to dispose of waste causing irreparable damage and a life expectancy of 6-12 years.
Local business support Ollie’s Army
Due to the limited information available, Ollie experienced speech delays and seizures over a number of years before being officially diagnosed, with one episode so severe, his father Mike was required to give mouth to mouth resuscitation at their family home.
Tragically in 2015, the family experienced further heartbreak when they discovered their youngest daughter Amelia also had Battens Disease at just 2 years old.
Thanks to Ollie’s love of football and car racing, Ollie’s Army has attracted attention from a number of high profile celebrities including Prince Harry, Ed Sheeran, Sergio Aguero, Rory McIllroy, Michael Vaughan and Olly Murs and is supported by Key 103, Cash for Kids and children’s charity When You Wish Upon a Star, all of which has enabled the family to adapt their home with specialist equipment for Ollie and Amelia’s needs.
The public support and coverage in the media and donations received so far have enabled Ollie’s Army to fight for compassionate use of a drug that is showing positive signs of slowing down CNL2 Battens Disease. Any additional fundraising will help to research new medication and ease the strains of daily life for Ollie and Amelia.
If anyone wishes to buy tickets or donate services or entertainment for the Children’s Charity Ball event, please get in touch with Emma or Lucy via email at events@olliesarmy.co.uk
If you would like to help to raise awareness or donate to Ollie’s Army directly through the Just Giving page, please visit the website www.olliesarmy.co.uk for more information.
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