Balloons released to remember James’ one year on (From Croydon Guardian)

Balloons released to remember James’ one year on

9:48am Thursday 6th November 2003 in

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Schoolfriends of James Haddad released white balloons during an emotional service to mark the first anniversary of his death.

Family, friends and teachers gathered at the James Haddad Memorial Garden at St Mary's School in Sydenham Road on October 25, one year after the nine-year-old lost his battle against a rare brain tumour.

James' parents, Robert and Sue Haddad as well as his sister, Christine, and head teacher Anne Pendry, were among the 300 people who attended a memorial mass followed by the blessing in the garden, which was created in his memory.

Sue Haddad also read a poem written by her daughter Christine, which she penned in memory of her brother.

Robert Haddad said: "It was a great tribute for James where around 300 people attended the service which featured readings from James' teachers, classmates and, of course, his favourite hymns that James used to love especially Rise and Shine." James' plight touched the hearts of Croydon Guardian readers who donated thousands of pounds to the James Haddad Appeal Fund.

His parents also used the event to present a £5,000 cheque to the Samantha Dickson Research Trust, which aims to find a cure for brain tumours in children and adults.