A kind navy veteran has donated £2,000 to a six-year-old girl battling cancer after she was allegedly scammed out of a caravan holiday.
Former Royal Marine Jan Preen, 83, stepped in with the generous donation to help Skye Brierley, from Blackpool – who he has never met.
For the past 18 months, the brave youngster has been battling Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma, which causes an operable fist-sized tumour.
Her cancer was discovered two years ago when her left eye developed a squint overnight.
Since then, she has undergone proton beam therapy in Florida and nine rounds of chemotherapy.
After completing treatment in January, her family decided to treat with a break at Butlins in Skegness.
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But they were left devastated when the owner of the two static caravans allegedly disappeared with their money.
Mr Preen, 83, was so touched when reading about Skyes plight that he sent a cheque for £2,000.
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His wife Joan, who died in 2010, was defrauded during her cancer treatment.
Mr Preen, of Beaconsfield, Bucks, said: I have always been of the opinion that if I ever had money I would help people who were unfortunate.
When I read about the story that touched my heart. I am 83 now, I am coming to the end of my life. I know what it is like to struggle.
I felt really sorry for Ruth and Skye – because Skye was so young that really hit me hard.
Another reader donated £500 and a donation page raised thousands following the coverage.
Skye has now spoken to Mr Preen on Skype and the family enjoyed a new Butlins trip, which included a live show, and time on the beach.
Her mother Ruth, who also has children Damien, 10, and Kira, 15, said of Mr Preens donation: I never expected we would get this sort of reaction, not at all.
When I told Skye about Jans donation, she didnt really understand but she asked “does this mean we can go on holiday now?”. When I said “Read More – Source
