THE family of courageous Arwen Card have been told she could only have a matter of months to live.

Arwen, six, of Garland Road, Colchester, has battled a brain tumour for three years. Now doctors say there is little more they can do.

Volunteers and staff at Greenstead Community Centre, in Hawthorn Drive, are planning a Princess’s Ball to raise money to take the St John’s Green Primary pupil on a dream trip to Euro Disney.

Mum Hannah Card, 28, said: “The last cycle of chemotherapy was the last chance we had. There are not even any clinical trials we can do.

“We are just carrying on as normal as much as possible. Arwen is not feeling too bad, but she is quite tired. She is only going to school in the mornings now and we are taking every day as it comes.”

It is hoped the Princess’s Ball will raise enough money to take Arwen and her mum, three-year-old brother Sam and dad Matthew on a last family holiday together.

Money will also be donated to Rays of Sunshine, which organises days out for families with sick children.

Mrs Card added: “It is incredible to know people are behind us and supporting us. It means so much.

“We would love to take Arwen and Sam to Euro Disney because it is all about making memories and having those special times as a family.

“We know we are living on borrowed time now, and we want to take her as soon as possible, while she is well enough to enjoy it.

“We are just grateful we have had this time with her. She has taught us so much and brought so much joy and love into our lives, and she is a lovely big sister to Sam.”

Doctors discovered and removed the brain tumour in June 2008.

After enduring months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, it looked as though Arwen was going to make a full recovery. But the family were left devastated in September last year when doctors found another, larger tumour in her brain during a routine scan. After three more cycles of intensive chemotherapy, doctors have told the family there is nothing more they can do.

Toni Knights, events organiser, is appealing for people and companies to donate items for the raffle, sponsor the event or help out during the evening.

She said: “We are looking for any help, whether that is through sponsorships, donations or maybe a dress for Arwen to wear on the day.

“We want to transform the hall into a pink-themed princess party for Arwen.”

The ball, which will include a disco, live music, raffle and a children’s entertainer, will take place on March 19, from 6.30pm.

Anyone who can help is asked to call Toni on 01206 791979, or 07814 404760. They can also e-mail toni@greensteadcommunitycentre.org.uk.