When A Child Is Born
1282. Lyra Cole
Lyra Cole, aged six, from Somerset, has released a Christmas single to fundraise for ‘Brain Tumour Research’.
Lyra was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was a baby and underwent emergency surgery to remove her tumour – which was the size of an orange – when she was just five months old. Determined to support other children and families who face similar experiences and to offer them hope, Lyra decided to record a cover of “When A Child Is Born” in aid of ‘Brain Tumour Research’, the only charity in the UK that is dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours. Lyra’s song topped the Amazon download chart in December 2019, beating acts such as Stormzy and Dua Lipa, and reached the top 20 in the UK Official Download Chart.
Lyra received her award in the New Year at the Houses of Parliament from her local MP James Heappey (pictured below).
In a personal letter to Lyra, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I know you do this with no thought of praise or reward, but allow me to offer my own recognition on how your Christmas single is doing so much for ‘Brain Tumour Research’ and helping other children, like you, who they support. Well done for all that you have achieved!”
James Heappey, MP for Wells, said:
“It is fantastic that the Prime Minister has recognised Lyra Cole with the Points of Light award. She is an incredible young woman who has shown so much bravery to beat her own illness and now is raising much needed funds for ‘Brain Tumour Research’. She is an inspiration to all in our community.”
Lyra said:
“I’m really excited. I’m really happy that I’ve raised money for Brain Tumour Research. I’m really, really, really happy and thank you for my award.”
Susan Castle-Smith, Head of PR at ‘Brain Tumour Research’, said:
“Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer yet, historically, just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.
“Lyra’s story has done so much to inspire other people whose lives are touched by brain tumours and we are extremely grateful for all that she has done for the charity. She is a thoroughly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.”
See more about Lyra’s fundraiser for ‘Brain Tumour Research’