The family of Arlo Lambie have issued a huge thank you to everyone who has donated and supported their fundraising campaign, and have revealed they are just back from visiting doctors in Paris, “who have been able to give him the treatment that he needs”.
Rare grade 4 brain tumour
The world of the 16-year-old fun-loving teenager from Cowes, and his family, was turned upside down when Arlo received a devastating diagnosis of a rare grade 4 brain tumour in October 2024.
He’d started experiencing minor headaches, which quickly escalated into hydrocephalus, a condition requiring urgent neurosurgery. His journey continued with daily radiotherapy and chemotherapy sessions at Southampton General Hospital.
Fundraising for treatment
However, the further treatment that is needed is not available on the NHS, so Arlo’s family have had the struggle of seeking out and funding the necessary treatment elsewhere.
A Just Giving appeal was set up and has raised more than £67,000 already.
Thank you message
The message posted by family friend, Gail Willows, reads,
“HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed to Arlo’s fund and to all the Island schools participating in the ‘wear what makes you happy’ MUFTI day (7th Feb 2025).
“Because the treatment Arlo needs is not available on the NHS, Arlo and his family are just back from visiting doctors in Paris who have been able to give him the treatment that he needs and this has been made possible by you.
“Here’s a photo of Arlo in Paris wearing what makes him happy. He has to go to Paris again in February and the ‘wear what makes you happy day’ is making this possible.
“Thank you IW Community and schools for being such an amazing lot.”
How you can help
Arlo’s determination to embrace life — through pizza nights, films, college days and dreaming of mountains and football matches — continues to inspire those around him. His family invites everyone to stand with them during this challenging time.
Together, the community is making a meaningful difference to Arlo’s journey.
