AN APPEAL is being launched to raise £250,000 for a five-year-old girl whose tumour has begun growing again.

The family of Madison Allan face taking her to America for treatment after bouts of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and an operation failed to shrink a tumour wrapped around her vital organs.

Mum Samantha, of Lords Crescent, Lower Darwen, said: “She’s had treatment since the tumour was discovered and nothing’s worked. Infact it’s surprised everyone by getting bigger.

“Now our doctor is in talks with other doctors about the next option. He’s scouring the UK for consultants and surgeons with ideas, and if that fails he’s going to look further afield.

“In America they have slightly more advanced technology and are a bit more daring, so it’s a possibility.

“But we can’t wait around for the doctor to decide before we start fundraising because it might be too late, we need to start as soon as possible.”

Madison, who attends Lower Darwen Primary School, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma - a rare childhood cancer affecting nerve tissue - when she was 10 months old.

An operation in November to remove the tumour in her stomach was halted because she was losing too much blood.

Samantha added: “Unfortunately, we also have to think that we might need the money to look after Madison if nothing can be done and we have to look after her at home and get carers.

“I hope that never happens, and that if we don’t need the money, we can donate it to the charity Families Against Neuroblastoma.”

Earlier this month Samantha, husband Mark, Madison and their 16-month-old daughter Scarlett travelled to Disneyland in Paris, paid for by fundraising events.

Samantha said: “Madison was ill during the trip, so couldn’t enjoy it as much as we’d hoped.

“She’s not been eating properly and keeps being sick. She has no energy and she’s skeletal.

“But it was a nice break for the family and Scarlett loved it. We will definately take Madison back when she’s better.”