Latics fans give generously in Emma Hoolin Appeal

The collection to raise money for four year old cancer sufferer Emma Hoolin held at the DW Stadium at Saturday's match against Bolton Wanderers raised over TEN TIMES the amount such matchday collections usually fetch - over £10,000.

INSPIRATION - Emma waves to the fans at half-time (right)

Emma, her parents Mark and Jill and sister Lily, were all guests of honour at the DW Stadium for the match as the cash collections around the stadium raised almost £7,000; while there was a huge surge in text-based donations which will tip the total to over £10,000.

Latics players have donated personally to the charity, although the extent of their contributions they have asked to remain private.

The town of Wigan has taken Emma's case to its heart over the past few weeks as the family attempt to raise the £211,000 needed to send their daughter for pioneering treatment in the USA.

Emma suffers from high risk neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects children under five years of age. Her current treatment has had the desired short-term effect, but in order to help prevent a relapse in the future Emma must receive pioneering treatment in the USA within a matter of weeks.

A spokesman for the family said that Emma and her family, who were presented to the crowd at half-time, were overwhelmed by the support on the day. "We were all amazed, touched and inspired seeing so many people giving so much to help beautiful little Emma.

"It was truly overwhelming and tears were shed witnessing the Latics fans literally digging deep to fill the collection buckets.

"Our amazing fans raised an unbelievable amount so many many thanks to all who did and for the club who made it all possible. It makes us all proud to be Wiganers."
It is still very much possible to donate to the fund by texting 70070 with the message EMMA90, followed by the amount you wish to donate - £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10.

For more details, text www.emmahoolin.co.uk or go to www.justgiving.com/emma-appeal.