Magical gesture from young Leeds conjurer
a young magician diagnosed with a rare form of cancer has help raise £5,000 for a charity which grants wishes to seriously ill children.
Harry Phillips and his family, from Methley, helped Rays of Sunshine by hosting a fundraising Ball at Oulton Hall earlier this year.
Dad Andrew Phillips said: “Thank you to everyone who supported our event at Oulton Hall. The generosity of friends and family never ceases to amaze.”
The charity helped Harry, 11, back in 2014 when it arranged for him to meet his idol, magician Dynamo.
Harry’s parents approached the organisation after Harry was hospitalised following a diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Harry had to endure intense chemotherapy and regular visits to hospital. His parents bought him a magic set when he was first admitted and it has since become a big part of his life.
A spokeswoman for the charity said: “Magic is his first real passion and he absolutely loves Dynamo. Rays of Sunshine organised for Harry and his family to travel to London to for a special meet and greet with the man himself and Harry even got chance to show off some of his own magic skills.”
Harry has now finished his treatment. The Phillips family wanted to help children, like Harry, who want to put their illness on hold for a day and have their big wish granted.
The fundraising evening featured Harry showcasing his magic skills and entertainment from Tom the Magic Guy and party band Heroes.
Jane Sharpe, the charity’s chief executive officer, said: “The money Harry and his family raised will help Rays of Sunshine fund magical wishes for seriously ill children, for which we can’t be more thankful.