A FUNDRAISING event in memory of a little girl with a winning smile has been organised by her devoted Christ-church family.

Emma and Jeremy Dobson’s first daughter Zoe died in 2011 aged 22 months after battling a rare form of childhood cancer.

The youngster was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when she was 18 months old and despite undergoing intensive treatment – chemotherapy, surgery, blood transfusions and a stem cell transplant – little Zoe sadly passed away in January 2011.

Now, more than two years after her death, Zoe’s parents and her 14-month-old sister Kassie are planning to mark her birthday with a special event.

Emma said: “This is the first big event we have organised since Zoe died two years ago.

“We’ve wanted to do something but obviously it’s been a difficult time and with Kassie coming along as well, it’s been a busy time.

“It’s obviously devastating losing Zoe but Kassie has been a wonderful distraction and we feel now the time is right to do something.

“It would have been Zoe’s birthday on March 11 so this fits in well to mark the occasion properly.

“It gives us the chance to remember her and all the good times we had.”

Emma, 35, added: “In terms of how much we want to raise there isn’t a specific target we have in mind, so we will be happy with whatever we can raise.

“The Boathouse has been really supportive and now we’ve just got our fingers crossed the weather stays fine.”

Before she died, Zoe was awarded a Little Star award from Cancer Research for her bravery.

The event – Zoe’s Birthday Bash – will take place at The Boathouse at Christchurch Quay between 10am and 4pm tomorrow.

People can go along and play a round of mini golf to raise money for the Neuroblastoma Society, which funds research into childhood cancer.

As well mini golf there will also be face painting, balloon modelling, colouring and craft zone and other activities.

For more information contact the couple via email at zoesbirthdaybash@gmail.com