Hastings company steps in to make dream come true for St Leonards girl, 8, undergoing leukaemia treatment

Amira Zohair, from St Leonards, was first admitted to hospital at the end of August suffering from leg pain and a high temperature.

Her mum, Amy Thomas, said it was initially put down to arthritis and a viral infection.

However, a few weeks later the schoolgirl started suffering from high temperatures and fever.

Her blood was sent to London for further testing, with the results sent back to the Conquest Hospital.

Amy said: “We were taken to a room with her consultant, a nurse and doctor and given the devastating news that Amira had leukaemia. She was started on fluids and medication while we waited to be transferred to London.

“You never think a bit of leg pain and high temperatures can result in the devastating news that your child has cancer.”

It was while in hospital that Amira first met Twiglet, a dachshund therapy dog, and instantly fell in love with it.

Amy said: “After Amira met the therapy dog at the hospital she wanted a sausage dog of her own. We were looking to get her one and then my sister called me and said Megan and Ryan, from Clarity Comps, were buying her one.

“I burst out crying on the phone, as I couldn’t believe someone wanted to make my little girl so happy. I’ll never forget Amira’s face when she met Susie and can’t ever thank Megan and Ryan for making her day and giving her the best gift she could ever get.”

Megan Merner, owner of Clarity Comps, said: “We are a locally-run business, giving away everything from luxury holidays to designer items and huge cash prizes. A percentage of every ticket purchased goes to a different charity each month, which is picked by our players.

“Throughout October the players chose to raise money for Amira so I started following her journey on Facebook. I saw some pictures of Amira with the hospital therapy dog, Twiglet, the miniature dachshund. I too have a miniature dachshund so asked if Amira would like to meet up and meet Albie for some cuddles to make her feel better.

“Amira’s family explained to me that since her treatment she has not been herself and the first time they saw a glimpse of the old Amira was when she was with Twiglet. Amira’s aunt told me they were desperately trying to find a puppy for Amira but they just couldn’t find one locally within their budget.

“We therefore decided to step in and make Amira’s dreams come true. On Sunday we travelled to go and pick up Amira’s new best friend, Susie the sausage dog.

“Bringing Susie home and surprising Amira with her was the best thing in the world. She didn’t stop smiling once she had that puppy in her arms. Although Amira still has a long journey ahead to recovery, this puppy will be with her every step of the way and will provide her the comfort she needs. She now has her very own little best friend to support her through such a difficult time.”