The search for a stem-cell donor to help 12 year old George Webb from Birchington has inspired local Freemasons to raise over £3,900 to support the Anthony Nolan Trust. George, who also suffers from Autistic Spectrum Disorder, was diagnosed with Diamond-Blackfan Anaemia (DBA) at just six weeks old. This condition is so rare it affects only 125 people in the whole of the UK, George being the only sufferer in Kent.

George’s Mum Vanessa said: “When we got the news about his bone marrow level it was such a rude awakening. With this condition he could become very ill at any time. As a parent, it’s horrible having to wait for a match for your son hanging over your head”.

Members of Minnis Bay Lodge, based in Birchington decided to take action and arranged several events to raise much needed funds for donor tracing charity Anthony Nolan. Charity Coordinator John Marshall-Redding said: “George’s father Allen came to us for help as a member, but we decided to take action to help everyone in this situation. We raised money through a Clay Pigeon Shoot, Golf Day, Charity Quiz and many other events.” John contributed himself by having a sponsored purple beard shave.

Vanessa added: “Every child deserves the opportunity to live a full and happy life. For George, his future is the hands of selfless strangers on the Anthony Nolan register. If you’re aged 16 to 30 please go to their website and join the register. Who knows you could save a life!”

For more information please go to http://www.anthonynolan.org