The family of a woman who cheated death after contracting a rare brain disease, are appealing for donations to organise a charity fundraiser.

In June 1997, Jo Fulleylove, of Gable Close, Abbots Langley, was diagnosed with parainfectious encephomylitis.

The disease, which is usually related to previous viral illness, produces neurological symptoms including seizures, headache, drowsiness and can affect mobility.

After being told by doctors she may never walk again, Ms Fulleylove said that through determination, the support of her family and the excellent care provided by nurses at Great Ormond Street Hospital, she has beaten the odds and is back on her feet.

Now, the 22-year-old is on a mission to raise as much money as possible for the hospital, with a fundraising campaign.

In January this year the family came to the Watford Observer pleading for residents to donate bottle tops.

A recycling firm in Portsmouth has promised to give £25 per half tonne received, so that they can be recycled.

Having collected almost 200,000 lids, the healthcare assistant now hopes to hold a charity disco at Watford FC, but needs donations to fund it.

Her stepfather, Shaun Beard, explained: “We thought it would be a great idea to organise a massive charity evening for 300 people, the week before Halloween, with a disco, a raffle and food.

“What we’re hoping is that all money made on the evening will go directly to the charity.

“But that means we need to find a way to pay for all our overheads in the first place – the hall, the food and the raffle prizes.

“We really need people to step up to the plate and donate whatever they can.

“From the bottle tops we’ve got about £13 in the kitty – they weigh so little, we’ll need to collect so many more for it to pay for the fundraiser, which we think will cost more than £4,550.

“Great Ormond Street Hospital is fantastic, they saved Jo’s life and go above and beyond.

“We’re all so overwhelmed by people’s generosity, we just need a little extra help.”

To donate bottle tops or give cash or support for the fundraiser call Shaun Beard on: 07752841337