LUTON’S brave little burns survivor, Shamiam Arif, is on track for free first class train travel to appointments at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London.
First Capital Connect bosses were so impressed after reading about her courage in the Herald&Post that they contacted the paper with their generous offer of assistance.
FCC spokesman Roger Perkins said: “We’re delighted to be able to help Shamiam and her family.
“Her story is very moving and everyone at First Capital Connect wishes her the very best with her treatment.”
Nine-year-old Shamiam suffered severe burns after a candle fell into her cot when she was a baby.
She lost both hands and has to wear a helmet to protect her head, which was burned down to the lining of her brain.
But in spite of her devastating injuries, the feisty Foxdale Junior pupil is growing up like any normal fun-loving little girl.
She adores dressing up to go and see ‘Uncle Doctor’ - consultant plastic surgeon Peter Dziewulski, who has waived his fees to treat her at St Andrews burn centre in Chelmsford’s Broomfield Hospital – but she’s also a typical tomboy who enjoys playing with her brother Shakaib, little sisters Shamita and Monoor and her cousins.
Her sunny nature and sweet smile, together with her huge zest for life, have won her a legion of devoted fans – particularly at the various hospitals she attends, which have become like second homes.
Shamiam will need many more operations as she grows. Her skin grafts
> If you’d like to help us help Shamiam send a cheque to United for the Needy (Shamiam Arif Appeal), 146 Gregory Bouolevard, Nottingham NG7 5JE