Isle of Wight hotel hosting fundraiser for boy with leukaemia

An event is planned at the Brunswick Hotel, in Shanklin, to support Jackson Park, who studies at St Blasius and celebrated his tenth birthday on September 17.

His mother, Zarea, described his diagnosis as an “absolute shock” but has hailed her son as a “true warrior”.

“He was run down after a cold at the beginning of the summer holidays,” said Zarea.

“Then he began to have nosebleeds and unexplained bruises.

“After some blood tests, we were told he has Type B Leukaemia.

Jackson Park with his loving mother, Zarea. (Image: Contributed) Read more from County Press: 

• Boys handed lifetime ban after Isle of Wight cinema incident

• Steps at popular Isle of Wight attraction shut for safety

“We have been back and forth to Southampton for treatment, which has been a struggle for us all.

“When he's feeling poorly, to have to get boats, and taxis, and travel so far hasn't been easy, but he has handled everything with such grace.

“He is a true warrior, and we’re taking it day by day, or even sometimes hour by hour, and not thinking about the what ifs.”

Jackson Park with his best friend Lacie. (Image: Contributed) Jackson and his family urgently need funds to help cover travel and day to day living as he undergoes chemotherapy.

The event, Jackson’s Halloween Bash, kickstarts at 4pm on Saturday, October 19, and raffle tickets are available now, with all money raise, and from ticket sales, going directly to Jackson.

Many local businesses have donated raffle prizes, of which there are already more than 70.

Guests will receive a ‘witches brew’ on arrival and can tuck into both savoury and sweet food donated by a wealth of Island businesses.

Entertainment includes a DJ, face painting and a fireworks display.

For tickets, contact the Brunswick Hotel or Jenna Massey directly on 07734273373.

Jackson Park after undergoing some treatment. (Image: Contributed) As well as the event in Shanklin, a GoFundMe page has also been set up for Jackson and has already raised more than £4,000.

You can make a donation here.

“Jackson's always been wise above his years,” said Zarea.

“He’s always been an absolute joy to be around and he’s very clever

“There isn’t much he can't tell you about space, animals and the sea.

“He writes beautiful poetry and he’s very creative.

Jackson Park tucking into some ice cream on the seafront. (Image: Contributed) “For fun, he builds Lego and makes animated sequences on his tablet.

“He has a great group of friends that love him just as much as he loves them.

“Jackson is funny and quick with his humour, which has come in handy in recent times.”