A former X Factor finalist with type one diabetes will be performing at a charity Christmas concert in aid of an eight-year-old New Malden schoolboy diagnosed with the same illness.
Teenage pop singer Amelia Lily, who finished third in The X Factor two years ago, will be bringing the X factor to New Malden’s Christ Church next month.
The powerhouse singer who was mentored by American superstar Kelly Rowland during her time on the hit ITV show, will be serenading audiences in aid of Christ Church schoolboy Freddie Eglin who was diagnosed with the condition two years ago.
His mother Jane Eglin who organised the event, said: “This concert is all about Freddie – and the many thousands of other young people in the UK with type one diabetes. Freddie was just six when he was diagnosed and it turned our lives upside down.
“I still cannot believe Amelia said yes. I was in shock – We found her agent and we sent lots of emails pestering her. I think I nearly fell off my chair when she agreed. It is fantastic. I am overwhelmed.
“We watch the show every Saturday night and Freddie is very excited to meet her.”
The family who live in Coombe Gardens voted for the former X Factor contestant when she appeared on the show after realising she faced the same struggles as Freddie.
Type one diabetes affects 400,000 people including children in the UK.
The Christmas Ding Dong for Diabetes concert which will be presented by comedian Tim Vine will be held on Friday, December 6 from 6.30pm.
The bill on the night includes a special appearance from CBBC’s John Archer, a pre-recorded message from presenter Eamonn Holmes and performances from school bands and choirs including a jazz band from Coombe Boys’.
All funds from the event will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
Mrs Eglin said: “They are the only charity trying to help find a cure. They also raise awareness and help to find ways to make lives easier for those with diabetes.
“I received tremendous support from JDRF and our local diabetes group after Freddie’s diagnosis and I really wanted to give something back.”
Tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children and can be purchased at dingdongfordiabetes.weebly.com.
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