The families of two toddlers are coming together next Saturday to raise funds and awareness for their beloved children who are bravely battling serious illness and calling on the public for their heartfelt support.

Sixteen-month-old Dawson Willcock pictured), of Sutton-in-Ashfield, was recently diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a cancer of the liver which has caused an orange-sized tumour and is being treated with intense chemotherapy.

In April he will either undergo major surgery to remove the tumour or have a liver transplant at Birmingham Children’s Hospital – depending on how chemotherapy goes.

Meanwhile, three-year-old Bilsthorpe resident Elise Bettison suffers from complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) which means she has two holes between her heart chambers, causing her heard to work double-time which in time will cause it to fail in time.

On Saturday, 25th February, there will be a coffee morning being at Bilsthorpe Village Hall, on Cross Street, in honour of the two children, aimed at raising vital funds to give both families support.

Money raised will be split between the two families to help fund day trips out, support hospital car parking and travel costs as well as assisting both with food costs while attending appointments with their children.

Dawson’s mum Wendy Willcock said: “We’d love to open the coffee morning to our local communities and there’s some great entertainment taking place, such as prize raffles, face painting tea and cake sales and you can even take a selfie with our very special guest – Stormy the storm trooper – for a donation.

“This will be the first time me and my husband David have met Elise’s mum and dad Nettie and Lawrence in person so it will be lovely to see them. I’ve spoken to them a few times and we’ve given each other lots of support.

“Nothing prepares you for being told your child has cancer. When the doctor tells you “We’ve found a large tumour on his liver”, from that moment your life, your child’s life and their sibling’s lives are completely blown apart.

“There is a saying that when someone has cancer, the whole family and everyone who loves them does too. Dawson is an incredibly brave boy and if we can help him and Elise enjoy some quality days out in the coming months, it will really help them through their ordeals.”

Anyone can turn up to the village hall to enjoy the day’s activities and help with raising funds. Entry costs just 25p on the door and donations for cakes and games will be gratefully received.

Also attending the event will be family friend Chris Spittlehouse, who has helped kick-start the fundraising from day one.

He will also be collecting donations ready for his two-night sleep-out in March, which will see him sleeping under the stars on the bench outside The Crescent shops in Bilsthorpe to bring in additional money for the youngsters.