Milestone: Appeal in memory of 'miracle boy' Joe Way passes £20,000

A FUNDRIAING appeal set up in memory of a Newquay youngster, described as a "miracle boy", has raised more than £20,000 for charity in just 20 weeks.

The website of Joe Way was launched in June, aimed at telling the story of the 'inspirational' young boy and also to raise money for Children's Hospice South West's Precious Lives Appeal.

Joe was described by medical staff as a 'miracle' after he fought off a host of life-threatening conditions before his death in May.

His father Matt, who works at Hendra Holiday Park, said the response has been staggering.

"It is just amazing how much we have raised; a thousand pounds a week isn't bad going," he said.

"There has been such a strong response to the appeal. We have even been contacted by people in Sheffield who want to tell the Joe Way story and help raise funds for a hospice up there."

The £20,000 mark was broken this week after Slimming World donated £1,233 to the cause.

The organisation held a fashion show at the Penventon Park Hotel in Redruth, which saw more than 200 people attend.

The compere for the night was Dean Woods, told the crowd why Cornwall needs a hospice for children and also explained the story of Joe Way.

Claire Way – Joe's mum - and Megan, his seven-year-old sister, were also invited to take part in the wedding section of the fashion show.

Megan said: "It was great to wear the pretty dresses and be a model for the night."

'Joe's story' – a new nine-minute DVD about the youngster – was also aired at the event.

Matt paid thanks to Slimming World for their fundraising efforts.

He added: "They did an amazing job we all had a great night and already the ladies are talking about there next event in March 2009."

The Joe Way website has been inundated donations since its launch, with fundraisers coming up with a variety of ideas to promote the charity.

Joe Way surfboard stickers, promoting his website and the Children's Hospice South West's Precious Lives Appeal, proved a big hit in Newquay, and even turned up in Peru.

*If you are interested in promoting the Joe Way website, contact info@joeway.co.uk

For more information on Joe Way, visit his website at: www.joeway.co.uk