News

Newport: Family raising money for Eliza’s cancer battle

Published

10 years ago

September 6, 2016

A NEWPORT family have turned to crowdfunding to secure the funds needed to help their 2-year-old daughter, Eliza, who has severe stage 4 Neuroblastoma – a rare and dangerous infant cancer which has spread through her body into the bone marrow.

On the JustGiving campaign her parents have said: “When we first came into hospital she was in a serious condition and in severe pain arching her back to stop the tumour pushing against her organs, it was horrific.

“My heart was broken into a thousand pieces and I spent the first few weeks desperately trying to make a plan to fix Eliza in between completely falling apart. The more I researched the more I came to realize that even cancer as aggressive as this can be treated as she is so young especially if given a helping hand at every stage of the treatment, so at this stage nothing is a foregone conclusion.

“Specialists have told us that there is a clinic in Germany that can offer Eliza post chemo 3 week immune building treatment to give her every chance possible. There are also new developments in the field of neuroblastoma in the US, currently unavailable on the NHS, such as targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy techniques that are being carefully considered at every stage.

“For now we are starting with a specialist diet, supplements and equipment that helps her immune system fight the cancer and limits the damaging effects of ‘Rapid Cojec’ one of the most intensive front-line chemotherapy protocols in modern medicine. It is expensive but together with her cheeky determination it seems to be working! Eliza has developed a great sense of humour, is happy and laughing as she has not done for many months.

“We want to do everything we can to give her the best chance. With this treatment, the chemo and Eliza’s amazingly positive character, she has made huge strides forward in her overall health. The battle is not won, but we feel we are on the right track. We cannot thank you enough for taking the time to read Eliza’s story and if you can help so Eliza continues to shine a positive light on this world.”

The campaign has a target of £60,000, and as of this morning (Sep 6) has raised over £5,200 with 183 donors.

You can donate to the appeal on the JustGiving page.

Crime

Stolen vehicle investigation after late-night crash in Waterston

Published

37 minutes ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A VEHICLE involved in a late-night single-vehicle crash in Waterston, Milford Haven, is believed to have been stolen, police have confirmed.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of the collision at around 11:55pm on Sunday (May 17).

The vehicle was recovered at approximately 1:15am on Monday (May 18), but nobody was found at the scene.

Following enquiries, police established that the vehicle had reportedly been stolen at some point during Sunday evening.

Officers said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

News

Labour names Senedd spokesperson team after election defeat

Published

1 hour ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Ken Skates says group will focus on holding new Welsh Government to account

INTERIM Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates has unveiled the party’s Senedd spokesperson team following its defeat in the recent election.

Mr Skates will act as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for health, care and national security.

He said the Labour group would draw on “extensive experience” while bringing “fresh energy and ideas” to its work in opposition.

The party said its Senedd group was committed to holding the new Welsh Government to account and pushing for practical results for the people of Wales.

Jayne Bryant MS has been appointed spokesperson for housing, communities, public and preventative health, with women’s health also included in her brief.

Mike Hedges MS will cover culture, sport, local government and legislation.

Vikki Howells MS becomes Chief Whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy and transport. Her portfolio also includes planning.

Lynne Neagle MS has been named Business Manager and spokesperson for children, education and lifelong learning.

Shav Taj MS will cover employment, equalities and economic transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS has been appointed spokesperson for finance, democracy, citizenship and the Welsh language. Regional and city deals will also fall within his brief.

Welsh Labour said Sarah Murphy’s portfolio will be announced when she returns from maternity leave.

A photo call with the Welsh Labour Senedd Group is due to take place in Cardiff Bay on Tuesday (May 19), although no interviews will be available.

News

Welsh Secretary holds first call with new First Minister

Published

2 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Jo Stevens and Rhun ap Iorwerth discuss poverty, public services, clean energy, steelmaking and economic growth

WELSH Secretary Jo Stevens has held her first call with Wales’ new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth following the recent Senedd election.

The call took place today, Monday (May 18), with Ms Stevens congratulating Mr ap Iorwerth on Plaid Cymru’s election results and his appointment as First Minister.

The Welsh Secretary said it was important for the UK and Welsh Governments to work constructively together on shared priorities.

Those issues include the cost of living, poverty, public services, economic growth and the delivery of clean energy infrastructure in Wales.

Ms Stevens also raised the importance of collaboration on Welsh steelmaking and the transition at Port Talbot, as well as growth funds, defence and national security.

The conversation follows a call last week between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the new First Minister, during which Mr Starmer also congratulated him on his appointment.

The Prime Minister has offered to meet Mr ap Iorwerth in person in June to discuss shared issues and priorities.