Abbie’s Army is a UK-based charity dedicated to raising awareness and funding for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive brain tumour that predominantly affects children. Founded in memory of Abbie, a vivacious and loving six-year-old who tragically lost her battle with DIPG in 2011, the organisation is driven by a mission to support families, fund innovative research, and work towards a cure for this devastating disease.
Abbie’s journey began like that of many other children diagnosed with DIPG—suddenly and heartbreakingly. Initially, her parents noticed small signs of concern, such as her struggling to smile in photographs or finding it difficult to tie her shoelaces. The reality of DIPG became clear after an MRI scan revealed the tumour in the pons area of her brainstem.
Despite her diagnosis, Abbie faced the disease with remarkable bravery, embodying a spirit of love, resilience, and compassion. Tragically, she passed away just 5 months after her diagnosis, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire change.
Abbie’s parents founded Abbie’s Army in her honour, turning their grief into a powerful force for good. Their goal was clear: to prevent other families from experiencing the heartbreak of losing a child to DIPG. Since its establishment, the charity has focused on addressing the critical lack of funding and research for paediatric brain tumours, particularly DIPG.
Abbie’s Army is at the forefront of funding cutting-edge scientific research aimed at understanding and treating DIPG. By supporting pioneering studies and clinical trials, the charity is helping to pave the way for breakthroughs that could lead to effective therapies and, one day, a cure.
In addition to funding research, Abbie’s Army provides resources and guidance to families facing DIPG. This includes practical advice, emotional support, and advocacy to navigate the challenges that come with this devastating diagnosis.
Abbie’s Army is also committed to remembering not just Abbie but all the children who have been taken by DIPG. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder of why the fight against this disease is so important. Through their work, the charity ensures that every child’s battle contributes to the greater mission of ending DIPG forever.
Abbie’s Army is a beacon of hope for families affected by DIPG, embodying resilience, love, and determination in the face of one of the most devastating paediatric cancers. To learn more, support their mission, or get involved, visit Abbie’s Army. Together, we can continue the fight for a future where DIPG is no longer a death sentence.