A local man brought some alpacas along to meet a West Lothian teenager.
Brave Ellie Beattie (14), from Livingston, was diagnosed in 2019 with metastatic pineoblastoma and leptomeningeal disease and has endured numerous bouts of radiotherapy and brain operations.
Her mum, Elaine, has been making her daughter’s life that little bit more bearable over the past few years by coming up with surprise days out and adventures.
She made a Facebook page in Ellie’s name and with the help of well-wishers has been able to fulfil a lot of her daughter’s dreams.
Ellie had always wanted to meet an alpaca or llama so her mum reached out to local man, Gerry Gallacher.
The Courier reported recently on Gerry’s efforts to help the local community in Fauldhouse and beyond during lockdown.
Through his network of community contacts Gerry was able to organise the visit for Ellie.
Elaine explained: “Last week I messaged my good friend Gerry Gallacher and asked if he could help with an appeal to make a nice memory for Ellie.
“Ellie always wanted to walk alpacas or llamas. Thank you to Gerry and everyone that responded with kind wishes.
“The healing power of animals lifted spirits all round.
“Seeing Ellie smile has made us all smile.
“Covid and cancer has deprived us all of the precious memories on Ellie’s bucket list but our friends have rallied round and pulled out all the stops.
“I believe this gives Ellie the boost to continue to fight this horrible cancer.”
Gerry quipped: “Simply beautiful just to see the smile on Ellie’s face.”
Elaine told The Courier that everyone is welcome to come and join Ellie’s page.
This past year has been tough and Elaine is keen to hear from people with new lockdown surprise ideas to help them make precious memories.
To find out more view Ellie’s Brave Cancer Journal: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2029215034055127
