THE family of a 16-year-old girl who passed away from a rare form of cancer has launched a fundraiser to obtain a property opposite the BRI which could help support other families.
Evie Ruck, who attended Loxton Campus after leaving Worle School in July, passed away on October 8, 2023.
She was a star pupil, and also a valued employee at The Blue Fish Co chip shop on Worle High Street.
Evie spent a few weeks in the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) receiving treatment following her terminal diagnosis.
However, a large tumour in her chest meant that she suffered multiple other complications. After a week in an induced coma, Evie sadly passed away.
Evie's family members have said they are proud of how positive and brave Evie was during her time in hospital, with the hospital staff being in awe of how remarkable and inspirational she was.
Evie's family are hoping to raise £20,000 to set up The Monkey Tree Charity. So far, just over £8,000 has been raised.
The charity-run restaurant would provide families whose loved ones are in the hospital with a safe space to talk, eat and drink.
Evie's mother said that this was something they struggled to find when Evie was being treated.
In the future, it is hoped that they may also be able to provide accommodation as well, which could help take the pressure off families who are already going through an extremely emotional time.
Evie's Just Giving page reads: "Our aim is to raise enough money to obtain a property within a few minutes walk to the BRI to provide a warm cosy environment to eat/drink/talk with privacy.
"This is something we struggled to find throughout our months stay with Evie. We will also be providing subsidised food and drink for families, as well as support and resources for those who need it.
"Unfortunately, the large tumour in Evie’s chest caused her to have various health complications, and after a week in an induced coma, there was sadly nothing further the doctors could do for her, and her life support was removed.
"We miss Evie dearly, but we are hoping that being able to start a charity in her name to provide support for other families going through similar situations will honour her memory."
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