The mother of a teenager who lost his battle against a medical condition so rare it did not have a name, is collecting donated Easter eggs for other children having a hard time.

Simone Lawless, who last year supported the Telegraph & Argus Children’s Secret Santa Appeal by handing over gifts donated to her in memory of her son Zak Simpson, is now on a new mission to put a smile on sick and disadvantaged youngsters’ faces – with the help of chocolate, generous T&A readers and businesses.

At Christmas, Miss Lawless, of Laisterdyke, Bradford, passed on selection boxes to Barnardo’s Young Carers Scheme and sacks of teddies, toys and books to the Gateway Children’s Centre in Ravenscliffe for youngsters aged up to five to play with.

Zak was 15 when he died in 2011. A lung condition and inability to swallow meant he could not eat normally and also needed constant oxygen therapy.

Since he died Miss Lawless and her family have organised numerous fundraising events supporting the children’s wards, hospice and respite home where Zak stayed during his brave fight against his illness.

Miss Lawless said: “It keeps Zak’s memory alive and it helps knowing we are putting a smile on the face of other children who are having a tough time through illness or poverty.

“I’m hoping to hear from people, schools, clubs, groups and businesses who want to help by donating eggs – every egg will count.”

Miss Lawless is planning on delivering the eggs on March 28 to ward 17 at Bradford Royal Infirmary, Wedgewood Respite Centre in Holme Wood and Mortimer House Community Centre in Thornbury.

Donations are also coming in from Miss Lawless’s Facebook friends, she said: “There’s even a cheque on its way from America from a woman I’ve made contact with there.”

Anyone who can help should contact Miss Lawless on 07936 432201.