AN APPEAL fund was launched today to keep alive the name of tragic leukaemia victim Nick Mallinson and help other sufferers

Nick, who asked the people of East Lancashire to join a bone marrow register when his disease was diagnosed, died on Christmas Day.

The 37-year-old, of Ontario Close, Blackburn, a personal banking manager for Lloyds in Preston, was told he had the illness after suffering stomach pains while going out with Kerri, whom he married in October.

And that month he discovered that, through the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust register, a donor had been found to replace Nick's bone marrow.

But the operation to save Nick's life failed and he died peacefully in Bristol Children's Hospital on Christmas Day.

Kerri Mallinson said: "The first transplant did not graft and then a second took place with his brother, Graham, as the donor. But there were complications with the operation.

"Nick was very honest with himself and those who knew him and realised the dangers of the operations and that they were his last chance. "But to him quality of life was everything and he wasn't prepared to settle for anything other than a full recovery."

Now, in memory of Nick, a fund is to be set up to help others with the illness.

"We want people, instead of flowers, to donate money to the Appeal," added Kerri.

"All we raise will go towards the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust, which urgently needs more funds to continue its work, and to the Bristol Children's Hospital."

When Nick received his diagnosis he contacted the Lancashire Evening Telegraph to ask the people of East Lancashire to consider joining the Trust register to help save the lives of fellow sufferers and many rallied to his request.

Kerri added: "I am pleased that through the Appeal something positive will come from Nick's plight."

A funeral will take place at St Mark's, Buncer Lane, Blackburn, on Friday January 5.

He leaves his wife, parents Geoff and Renee, and brothers Graham and Stuart.

To donate to the Nick Mallinson Leukaemia Appeal you can pay into Lloyds bank account number 00042060, sorting code 30 91 01. Alternatively you can send donations to Graham Mallinson, 45 Slimbridge Close, Bolton BL2 5NT. You can also gain information about leukaemia from Graham.

To join the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust register, call 0171 284 1234 or write to the Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 4YR.

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