Balloon tribute planned for tragic Nelson girl's funeral (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Balloon tribute planned for tragic Nelson girl's funeral

9:30am Wednesday 4th January 2012 in Nelson By Vanessa Cornall, Reporter

THE mother of a five-year-old Pendle girl who died from a brain tumour is preparing to say a poignant goodbye to her daughter by releasing a 100 balloons at her funeral.

Brave little Shaylee Houghton died after a four month battle in hospital on December 29 with her family by her side.

The Holy Saviour Primary School pupil had only been diagnosed with the rare tumour, known as grade 4 glioblastoma multiforme, in August.

But doctors were baffled by the incurable and inoperable condition, which affects just three out of every 100,000 people.

Shaylee’s auntie, Sharon Morgan who she shared many day trips and memories said: “Shaylee will remain in the hearts of everyone who knew forever.

“Her story touched so many people, she was so brave and she will be tremendously missed.

“At her funeral Gemma, her mum and other close friends will be releasing 100 blue and white balloons as a tribute to her.

“Shaylee was a massive Man City fan so the theme tune, Blue Moon will play at the same time.”

Shaylee, of Thursby Road, Nelson will be buried at Nelson’s Walton Lane Cemetery on Thursday at 3.15pm, following a service at Holy Trinity Church, Nelson at 2.15pm and a family service at Helliwells Funeral Service.

Shaylee’s devoted mum, Gemma Houghton, was the driving force behind a Facebook fundraising group set up to send Shaylee on memory making days and to give her everything she possibly needed.

Gemma said: “I can’t thank everyone enough for all the money they helped raise for Shaylee.

“Shaylee will always be my special little girl. The money raised will be used to pay for the funeral and if there is anything left it will be donated to a good cause.”

Shaylee was diagnosed at Manchester Children’s Hospital, after Gemma noticed her arm had started to tremble.

Despite undergoing gruelling radiotherapy and chemotherapy doctors failed to control the tumour.

Since the youngsters death hundreds of tributes have been left online.