THE mum of an Evesham boy with leukaemia is raising money for vibrating devices to take the sting out of injections for children. Two-year-old Monty Troughton was diagnosed after suffering a series of infections following a broken leg and was given a hamper of useful items by Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.

In it was a Buzzy, a vibrating device with freezable wings that can be pressed against the skin before procedures to numb and then control the pain.

And having seen the positive impact, mum Athen Warren quickly set about working on sharing the benefits with other poorly children. “It has made a difference for Monty, even the nurses said it was amazing for one injection that they knew to be particularly painful,” said Miss Warren. “For older children it also helps to give them a bit more control, so they can hold it themselves.

“A lot of people at the hospital had not come across them, the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust sent one through for Monty in a pack of things to help us in the early days. “I looked it up online and saw they could be cleaned and reused for different patients and having realised the difference it makes.

“Monty had quite a traumatic experience having lots of cannulas in before they put in his line, using this would have been useful in that time.”

The devices, which can be cleaned and used by multiple patients, will be donated to Worcestershire Royal Hospital with some given to those going through lengthy treatment at home.

There was shock at how quickly word had spread with the initial £1,750 target smashed through within 24 hours.

“We have raised about £4,500 already and it would be nice to get enough for 100, so another £500,” added Miss Warren. “Initially we set the target quite low but it has taken off way beyond what I imagined. The generosity has been amazing, with this and the support we have had while spending time with Monty in the hospital. We have a baby too so friends and family have been amazing. The sharing on social media was what really made it take off.”

Monty is facing up to three-and-a-half years of treatment but the family is optimistic. “He is having different types of chemotherapy, this has been our third week now but he is coping really well and taking it all in his stride,” said Miss Warren.

To donate, visit uk.gofundme.com/f/buzzys-for-childrens-wards