Nine-Year-Old Honored to Activate Town’s Christmas Lights Following Parental Care

Felicity, a nine-year-old, has been selected to illuminate her hometown’s Christmas lights, an honor bestowed upon her for providing care to both her parents during their periods of illness. She stated, “I get to press a big button,” adding, “It’ll be really cool, but I’ll also be a bit nervous.” The schoolgirl from Loughborough has offered support to her mother, Karolin, following a breast cancer diagnosis in 2020, a role she shares with her older siblings, Kelly, 21, and Cody, 23. In August, Felicity once more provided assistance, this time to her father, Leon, after he experienced a mini stroke. The student from Thorpe Acre Junior School commented: “My mum had cancer, and she needed quite a lot of help, whilst she was recovering.” “I gave her her breakfast; I helped her with a few everyday things that she might need help with.” “I think it was quite special for her, because if you need help, I’ll always be there.” Beyond her care for her parents, Felicity’s selection to activate the lights also acknowledges her fundraising efforts for the twin sons of a family friend. Both boys live with cerebral palsy, necessitating specialized equipment and treatments that are not accessible through the NHS. Felicity generated over £1,000 through a hair donation, which was subsequently given to the Little Princess Trust for the creation of wigs for children experiencing hair loss. Karolin submitted her daughter’s nomination as an entry in Charnwood Borough Council’s Light Up Loughborough competition. Karolin stated: “She is like our happiness, and a little clown as well – always making my journey positive. “And she never complained or asked for anything during my difficult time.” “My husband had a mini stroke in the summer, we thought we almost lost him, and she again helped me to look after her dad while he was resting.” “I am so proud of her and happy to have her in my life.” The announcement was made during a surprise assembly at her school, with attendees including the mayor of Charnwood, Dr Julie Bradshaw, and councillor Jennifer Tillotson. Bradshaw commented: “It was an honour to be on the judging panel – there are a lot of brave, brilliant and selfless children in Charnwood.” “Reading Felicity’s story really moved me, and to be able to give her the opportunity to do something fun and exciting in front of so many people has given me a huge sense of pride.” Tillotson further remarked: “Felicity’s story stood out for the way she always seems to remain strong and positive, regardless of what adversity comes her way.” “At such a young age, that is so impressive.” The Loughborough lights switch-on event is scheduled to take place in the town’s Market Place, commencing at 16:00 GMT on 29 November. Felicity is expected to activate the lights around 18:30. The event will also feature performances, a Santa’s grotto, and a variety of stalls, stands, and rides. For updates, follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or through WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.