Dance night to help young Alex

Burlesque dancers are giving their support to a fundraising drive to help a young boy access life-changing treatment.
Sarah Cromack, owner of Just Sandwiches, has organised two weeks  of fundraising for her friend Sarah Craven's son, Alex, who has a form of Cerebral Palsy and needs treatment which he can't get on the NHS.Sarah Cromack, owner of Just Sandwiches, has organised two weeks  of fundraising for her friend Sarah Craven's son, Alex, who has a form of Cerebral Palsy and needs treatment which he can't get on the NHS.
Sarah Cromack, owner of Just Sandwiches, has organised two weeks of fundraising for her friend Sarah Craven's son, Alex, who has a form of Cerebral Palsy and needs treatment which he can't get on the NHS.

Five-year-old Alex Craven was diagnosed with Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy at just nine months old and cannot straighten his legs.

He has been accepted for selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery in America, which could help him to walk independently for the first time and relieve his pain. But his family are trying to raise £60,000 to cover the costs associated with the procedure.

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A burlesque charity night will be held at Pontefract Sports and Social Club on November 19 to support Alex.

Karen Smith, instructor for Burlesque Chair Dance UK, which holds classes in Pontefract, South Kirkby and Agbrigg, has organised the show.

The 49-year-old will perform alongside Alex’s mum Sarah, who is a close friend of hers, her burlesque students, classic burlesque dancers and drag acts.

She said: “I turn 50 on November 12 and I wanted to do something with my burlesque classes to celebrate.

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“Rather than having a party and getting gifts, I thought, why don’t we do a show but do it for charity. I will get to enjoy my birthday with all these friends and get great enjoyment from raising money for Alex. I see on a weekly basis how his family struggle, particularly as Alex gets bigger and older, but you never hear them complain.

“They are dedicating their lives to provide the best possible care for Alex. I would like to think if it was my child, people would rally round to help me and if we can support them, I would feel more than happy.”

The over 18s event begins at 7pm. Tickets cost £10 and available at the social club or by calling Mrs Smith on 07546997616.

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