Birmingham Girl's Heartfelt Mission to Unite All Kirstys Across the UK
An inspiring 11-year-old girl from Birmingham, who is bravely battling a brain tumour, has launched a unique nationwide campaign to track down every individual named Kirsty or Kirstie in the United Kingdom. Kirsty Waugh, diagnosed in November 2024, aims to raise vital funds and awareness for paediatric brain tumour research through this heartfelt initiative.
A Personal Quest with a Powerful Purpose
Kirsty is currently undergoing weekly chemotherapy after more than a year of intensive treatment. She has experienced significant challenges, including hair loss, blood transfusions, and frequent hospital visits. Her campaign seeks to highlight the struggles faced by children with brain tumours and advocate for more compassionate treatments.
"Treatment is incredibly tough for all kids with brain tumours," Kirsty explained. "I’ve lost a lot of hair, had blood transfusions, and spent countless days in hospital. That’s why we urgently need research to develop kinder treatments. Shockingly, only 3p in every £100 of government cancer research funding is allocated to help children like me."
Birmingham's Notable Shortage of Kirstys
According to data shared by Kirsty's father, Mat Waugh, originally from Kings Heath in Birmingham, the West Midlands region stands out for having very few individuals with the name Kirsty. Mat expressed his disappointment, noting his deep connection to the area.
"When I looked at the data recently, Birmingham and the West Midlands are highlighted as areas with remarkably few Kirstys," Mat told reporters. "Since I was born and grew up in Kings Heath, where my mother still resides, this pains me greatly. I am absolutely confident that Brummie Kirstys would respond enthusiastically if they learn about the campaign."
Campaign Gains National Momentum and Celebrity Support
The initiative has already identified over 6,400 people named Kirsty or Kirstie and raised more than £62,000 for OSCAR's Paediatric Brain Tumour Charity. This charity was established twelve years ago in memory of nine-year-old Oscar Hughes from York.
Kirsty's efforts have garnered significant attention, including appearances on BBC Breakfast and support from notable figures such as presenter Kirstie Allsopp, sports broadcaster Kirsty Gallacher, children's author Kirsty Applebaum, and media personalities Davina McCall and Jamie Theakston. The campaign also gained momentum after a meeting with UK badminton champion Kirsty Gilmour.
How to Support Kirsty's Inspiring Campaign
Individuals named Kirsty or Kirstie can participate by adding themselves to the interactive map at the campaign's dedicated website. Supporters are encouraged to share the appeal and motivate friends, family, and colleagues with the name to get involved.
Additionally, Kirstys or Kirsties can organise their own fundraising activities, such as hosting a 'Cakes for Kirsty' stall or participating in a '5K for Kirsty' run. Updates on the campaign are available on Instagram under the handle @mynameis.kirsty.
Mat Waugh emphasised the emotional impact of the campaign: "Every time a Kirsty or a supporter joins the map, and every donation made, gives Kirsty a tremendous lift. It's an incredibly difficult time for our family, but it's amazing to see her efforts funding crucial research and bringing smiles to her face when she needs it most."
OSCAR's Paediatric Brain Tumour Charity focuses on funding innovative research and providing tailored support for families affected by paediatric brain tumours, making Kirsty's mission all the more vital.
