Lakelands Academy had a non-uniform day and cake sale on March 23 to raise money for a life-changing operation to overcome just some of the difficulties that Year 9 student Thomas Lake has to deal with on a daily basis.

It is not unusual for Lakelands to donate money raised from various events, to charitable organisations, but this time the cause is particularly close to their hearts. Thomas lives with Quadriplegic Spastic Cerebral Palsy but has recently been told that an operation called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) could greatly improve his quality of life. Sadly, the NHS do not fund this operation for everyone, and it will cost £16,000 - plus £9,000 for intense physiotherapy and equipment.

Mum of Thomas, Helen Lake wanted to thank Lakelands Academy: “The response we have had since you announced the non-uniform day to raise money for Thomas's operation has been overwhelming. The students’ responses have been so lovely to Thomas. To then organise a cake sale too, and to see how many cakes have been brought in this morning was mouth dropping, both Thomas and I couldn't stop smiling! We have had lovely messages and support on Justgiving too, which is so nice. Thank You!”

Together with the funds raised from the non-uniform day and the cake sale the school has raised a fantastic £1026 to help Thomas and his family on their fundraising journey.