Corby woman's '˜Wear It Purple' day breaks £40,000 barrier

Lynette Haselip’s young daughter Farah Mills was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) after she woke up on Christmas morning five years ago with a swollen ankle.

For the past three years Lynette has held a ‘Wear It Purple’ day to raise money for JIA-at-NRAS, with last year’s event raising a then-record £20,432.

Lynette said she hoped this year’s day would be the biggest yet and, now the counting is over, it’s been confirmed it was after £42,672.32 was raised.

She said: “Once again I am completely overwhelmed at the amount of people who got involved this year and the amount raised.

“I never ever imagined #wearpurpleforjia would become what it has.

“JIA-at-NRAS are a great charity that support many children who suffer with JIA and their families, so I know this amount of money raised really does mean so much to them.”

Farah’s school, Danesholme Infant Academy, took part this year by wearing yellow T-shirts with purple writing.

Lynette added: “I would like to thank all the teachers and staff for all their support, for everything they have done and the families for getting involved again.

“So many people locally took part and it was so lovely to see all the pictures shared on social media.”

Shortly after the day Farah was invited to the Palace of Westminster and presented with a trophy as a thank you for her fundraising.

Former Labour leader Ed Milliband attended and wore a purple tie to show his support.

Planning is already in full swing for next year and the next #WearPurpleForJIA is on Friday, June 7, 2019.