The mother of a teenager who lost his battle against a medical condition so rare it baffled doctors worldwide is supporting the Telegraph & Argus Children’s Secret Santa Appeal by handing over gifts donated to her in memory of her son.

Simone Lawless got in touch with the T&A after being inundated by well-wishers wanting to support her charity work.

Miss Lawless said in the past week she had been overwhelmed by the sheer amount of donations of toys and selection boxes in the run-up to Christmas.

Although the appeal is encouraging readers and businesses to give cash donations so presents can then be bought for as many of the district’s poorest children as possible, Miss Lawson’s offer of help was happily accepted.

The selection boxes will soon be on their way to Barnardo’s Young Carers Scheme and the sacks of teddies, toys and books will all be going to the Gateway Children’s Centre in Ravenscliffe for youngsters aged up to five to play with.

Zak Simpson was 15 when he died last year. 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: “Doing all this charity work keeps me going, it gives me a reason to get out of bed in the morning. People have been so kind but really they’ve given more than I know what to do with this Christmas.

“I’ve shared some out to the children’s wards and to the respite home where Zak spent time but even they can only take so much and I still had lots left over. I read about the T&A’s appeal and thought it was just perfect to help out.”