‘Amazing young people’ help inspire big-hearted Bethany (From Wharfedale Observer)
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‘Amazing young people’ help inspire big-hearted Bethany
5:20pm Tuesday 24th April 2012 in News By Annette McIntyre
Bethany (left) with Hannah Jones, who has undergone a series of operations to remove a brain tumour
An inspirational schoolgirl who has launched her own charity after raising thousands of pounds has received an international award – and celebrated by offering to raise funds for a cash-strapped children’s hospice.
Twelve-year-old Bethany Hare, from Horsforth, was presented with her trophy and a £500 cheque for her charity in front of an audience of celebrities and more than 1,800 Rotarians in Bournemouth.
The youngster became known to people around the world after launching a fundraising video in which she dressed as Charlie Chaplin and sang Smile.
So far she has raised more than £18,000 for Martin House children’s hospice and has gone on to launch her own charity Bethany’s Smile, to raise money for children all over the country with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses.
While at the ceremony Bethany met Hannah Jones, 19. Hannah, has suffered a brain tumour and has since had three operations, and a subsequent stroke.
Bethany’s mum Yvonne said: “The event was extremely moving, humbling and emotional. Bethany was extremely honoured to share the stage with such amazing and inspirational young people.
“She also made a good friend of Ben, the young Marine who lost his left arm and right leg in a land mine accident. He is so lovely and never stops smiling.”
She said the award weekend had inspired Bethany more than ever to continue with her fundraising.
The honour is the latest accolade to be awarded to the youngster. She has already received the Young Fundraiser of the Year Award from Just Giving, a Red Cross Humanitarian Citizen prize, a Kids Count Inspiration Award, a Yorkshire Child Of Courage and Achievement Award, and a Diana Award. Earlier this month she also received the Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland (RIBI) Young Citizens’ Award.
Last year hundreds of people took part in a fundraising Walk of Smiles organised by Bethany – an event which is to be repeated this year.
If anyone would like to support Bethany’s fundraising campaign, they can visit the website at www.justgiving.com/bethanyssmile.
