Last night the ambitious target of £100,000 to help treat Arlo Lambie, who is suffering an aggressive Grade 4 brain tumour, exceeded its target. Island pupils really got behind one of their own this week to support the 16-year-old who has been bravely battling the condition.

Around 30 primary and secondary schools, in a show of solidarity, participated in a ‘beautiful’ mufti day. The theme was the idea of Arlo, from Cowes, with ‘Wear what you want makes you happy’, designed to encourage students to express themselves while raising funds for his ongoing treatment.

Arlo has been under the care of the NHS since his diagnosis last October but, after months of research, his family are travelling to
France, via a compassionate access scheme, for alternative treatment. He has now started taking a drug called ONC20, and travels to Paris for a month’s supply of the medication, with the cost of each treatment up to £10,000.

His JustGiving page had a target of £100,000, although there is no guarantee this will be enough to finish his course of the medication.

As of yesterday evening (Thursday), that total was smashed, having raised just over £102,000 by more than 3,500 donors. Donations are still flooding in.

Following last Friday’s (February 7) mufti day, his grateful family said: “With sparkles, unicorns, artwork, dinosaurs, shades, hoodies and PJ’s, we saw so many happy faces on their way to school.

“In their photos, we have been flooded with messages of positivity. Our inspiring community caught the attention of local, regional and national media. The donations are coming from across the country, making it possible for Arlo to access the care he needs.

“Thank you for your support, for holding hope and for making ‘Wear what you want makes you happy’ such a beautiful day.”

Will Doyle, head of school at Ryde Academy, which took part in the fund-raiser, said: “When everyone at Ryde Academy heard about Arlo and the wonderful idea of the IW education community coming together to support him, it was an opportunity not to be missed.”

To donate visit iw.observer/donate-arlo-journey.