5:10pm Thursday 5th October 2006
By Natalie Fahy
Inspirational meningitis survivor Ellie Bishop's future is secure after businesses and individuals - including generous Halesowen News readers - put her on the property ladder.
The brave six-year-old's move into a specially adapted bungalow in Rowley Regis will signal an end to the traumatic amputation operations and hospital visits she has undergone since the killer brain bug struck.
Doctors thought she wouldn't make it but now - thanks to YOUR generosity - Ellie can finally look forward to a home of her own and a secure future.
Chris Kelly, chairman of Keltruck and a trustee for the Ellie Bishop Trust, said the Trust currently had around £77,000.
He added: "We are buying the bungalow in the name of the Trust and the trustees will take care of it.
"When Ellie is 21 it will transfer into her name.
"She's living on a canal barge at the moment and it's going to be a huge improvement for her.
"She will have a lovely garden to enjoy and she wants a Springer Spaniel too, so we have promised to get her one.
"We are still accepting donations and every little bit helps.
"The amount of money people have raised so far has been fantastic."
He said donations from local businesses had bumped up the massive £33,000 raised by staff at Asda in Oldbury, a campaign spearheaded by June Lloyd and Dawn Lesley.
HSBC in Wolverhampton have also agreed to offer a two-year interest free mortgage to make up any shortfall.
Ellie's dad Paul said: "I'm pleased because this is something for Ellie when she gets older.
"She will enjoy it.
"It needs a bit more space and we are planning to knock the garage into one big room.
"We just want to get in there and get it done."
He added: "Chris Kelly has been nothing short of a saint.
"He is working all the hours of the week just trying to get more money for Ellie.
"He has really helped us in so many ways.
"For him to do this for my angel is a big weight off my mind."
The trustees are on the look out for anyone who wants to lend a hand giving the garden a makeover or can paint or decorate in the house.
If you can help out, contact Chris Kelly on 07774 746633.
To donate to the trust, send cheques made payable to ELLIE BISHOP TRUST, Halesowen News, St John's House, St John's Road, Stourbridge, DY8 1EH.
Cheques will then be forwarded to the trustees.
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