THE community is rallying around a teenager who has been diagnosed with a rare cancer.

A fundraiser has been set up on behalf of 16-year-old Madison Elliott, of Barrow, who has stage four Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, which is a rare, aggressive blood cancer of the lymphatic system.

The diagnosis came as a ‘complete shock’ to Madison, her mum Emma, her dad and her brother Zach.

Madison had been suffering with ‘intense back pain’ over the course of a number of months, along with other symptoms.

The Barrow Sixth Form Student was referred to a specialist physiotherapist and after blood tests, a MRI and a biopsy, the devastating diagnosis was confirmed.

Madison is now undergoing treatment at The Christie in Manchester, travelling to the hospital for scans, consultations, and chemotherapy.

Her auntie and creator of the fundraiser, Laura Bowness, said: “Madison has a long road ahead of her but despite everything, she remains strong and determined to get through this. She has amazed us all with her bravery and no fuss attitude - she simply wants to be treated and carry on with her full, happy life.”

The fundraiser has drawn much attention, raising more than £4,100 in just two days.

Mum Emma said: "I can’t find the right words to thank everyone for the amazing generosity that has been shown.

“Overwhelmed and incredibly grateful are in no way enough to describe how it feels to have a huge pressure alleviated.

“Thank you to every single person who has donated, shared the link, planned their own fundraisers and got in touch with supportive words. The kindness of both people we know and complete strangers will never be forgotten.

“We are just at the start of a long journey and when we have some thinking space, will be speaking to the staff from the Young Oncology Unit at the Christie, where Madison is being treated, about how your donations can support their work with other young people too."

To donate to the fundraiser, visit: https://tinyurl.com/4vh383cn