A young Orwell lady hasn’t let her disability stop her raising thousands of pounds for chairty and is showing no signs of slowing down with two more fundraisers coming up this summer – but needs help from sponsors to make them happen.

Royston Crow: Kirsten and others at a previous fundraiser.Kirsten and others at a previous fundraiser. (Image: Archant)

Kirsten Bailey – who has spinal muscular atrophy type 2 and uses a wheelchair – is busy planning a summer fete and a glamourous ball for Beads of Courage children’s cancer programme at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

The 26-year-old said: “My disability doesn’t stop me, and it’s raising money that keeps me going.

“It gives me something to do – I can’t go out and get a full time job like other people because employers want me to stay until 4pm, but I have care needs that prevent me from doing that.”

The Beads of Courage programme means children going through cancer treatment get different coloured beads to chart their treatment journey.

Kirsten held Christmas and spring fetes for the cause, which combined raised more than £950.

However she is hoping that the fete and the ball will raise much more.

Kirsten said: “I don’t go out the house very much, but I want to do something that helps other people.

“Fundraising makes me knackered, but it is worth it if it helps another person.”

They have live music from Ollie Lepage-Dean and a compere for the ball at The Red Lion in Whittlesford, which also includes a three-course meal. Tickets are £65 and the theme is a touch of pink, so Kirsten wants people to wear something pink with their suit or evening dress.

Kirsten is also doing a sponsored silence on May 15 from 10am to 10pm.

“I have decided to give half to West Yorkshire animal in need and half to the touch of pink ball as we are struggling to get sponsors!

“It is very hard for me to keep silent so please support me to help these two causes.”

There are 12 tables remaining at the summer fete which is being held inside Orwell Village Hall in High Street on Monday, June 17, from 11am to 4pm. The fee is £10 per table.

The ball is set to be take place on September 2, from 7pm. For more information, for tickets or to donate call 01223 207079 or email popcornandmo@hotmail.com