Sir,

My sister, Isla arranged a surprise party for my 40th birthday, where we had a large raffle and an auction and I would like to thank everyone for their attendance and kindness in the donation they made.

We raised £2650 which is being split between the Children's ward at Crosshouse Hospital and Rainbow House, Irvine.

As I'm sure you were told by my family, the surprise party was arranged as I had wanted to give back something for everything that the hospital and Rainbow House did for my daughter when she was diagnosed with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM). I am fortunate enough that my daughter has recovered well.

ADEM as it is known is a rare autoimmune disease marked by a sudden widespread attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. It also attacks the nerves of the central nervous system and is often triggered by a viral infection. It affects around eight in every 1,000,000 people every year.

Again, I would like to thank you for your generosity as I believe we have raised a fantastic amount.

Shonaigh Henderson,

Drumdroch Farm,

Galston,

Ayrshire