THE FRIENDS and family of a brave little girl who was diagnosed with leukaemia have launched a fundraising campaign to make her dream become a reality.

Five year-old Michaela Russell was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia two weeks ago.

She is now undergoing an intensive round of chemotherapy at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London, which has caused her beloved brown locks to start falling out and has left her constantly tired.

Michaela, of Elderberry Drive, Langdon Hills, has also been prescribed steroids which have drastically increased her appetite.

Mum Veronika, 30, is now trying to raise £1,500 to take her daughter to Disneyland Paris so she can meet Tinker Bell.

Mrs Russell said: “I want to give her something to look forward to. I’m going to do all I can to get her there and make her dream come true.

“It all unfolded because her face was a little bit swollen and it was just getting worse and worse until she was complaining that it was really sore.

“I couldn’t believe it when the doctor told us she has leukaemia, but I think we’re lucky that she was diagnosed so quickly.

“Now she’s started treatment she’s getting back to herself a bit but she’s eating from morning to night because of the steroids.

She’s also losing her hair which has really upset her because she loves her long hair. Michaela has been so good about everything, she’s just so brave.

“My friends have given me great support, and I’ve had donations and kind messages from complete strangers. It’s amazing.”

Michaela has been told she is unlikely to return to classes at Great Berry Primary School, in Forest Glade, Langdon Hills, for at least six months.

Around 300 children in Britain are diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia every year.

Thanks to research into new treatments, 85 per cent of youngsters with the condition are completely cured.

To donate to Michaela’s fund, go to gofundme.com/d10evw.