FOR doting mum Helen Sadler life after Erin was never going to be the same – but the memories she has of her adversity-defying daughter will remain a constant.

The Colchester youngster – considered a celebrity by many in the city – died on December 13 at the age of just nine-years-old.

She had battled blood, kidney, liver and heart disease, endured endless blood transfusions, and survived sepsis, a haemorrhage and a cardiac arrest.

The little fighter, Helen’s best friend as much as her daughter, left an impression on all who met her or followed her journey through the power of social media.

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It’s no wonder then her untimely death has left such a void in the lives of the community, the support workers who cared for her and, more than anyone, her mum.

“I cannot articulate the devastation of not being with Erin and I don’t know how I physically survive each day,” she said, speaking candidly.

“Each day that passes does not bring any comfort, it’s another day further away from her - it was never an exaggeration when I said she was my whole heart and world.

“Erin is the best parts of me and a better person than I could ever dream to be. I don’t want to leave the house; I don’t want a new life or memories without her.

“The things I can do as her mum are basically nothing now and that’s palpably distressing. If we can’t be together, then I want to stay how we are now.”

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But despite the unimaginable pain Helen has experienced through the loss of her daughter, she valiantly remains determined to do all she can to honour her memory.

Since her tragic death, Helen has made it her goal to raise as much money as possible for the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, which looked after Erin.

In addition to collecting money online, she has also made collection tins featuring “her beautiful face” and placed them in some of Erin’s favourite Colchester places.

The Gazette has even launched its very own For The Love of Erin campaign in support of Helen’s fundraising mission.

Helen’s initiative has so far raised more than £2,500 for the non-profit organisation, whose support workers support children with life-threatening conditions.

She said: “It is an incredible amount that has reinforced my understanding of the wonderful people who love and care for Erin.

“I know collection boxes are old school but Erin said always try, nothing happens if you don’t try.

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“And even if Erin just raises awareness of the Rainbow Trust that is another achievement of my incredible daughter and support for the families who need it.

“I have now also decided I’d like Erin to have a stone in the crematorium and hers will be next to my mums, Erin’s nanna.”

Some of the collection tins can be found in at BP petrol station, in Ipswich Road, Tesco in Highwoods, LEJ Hair Gallery and The Chill Out Centre in Stanway.

To donate to Helen’s online fundraiser visit tinyurl.com/2rd9xdhu.

If you are planning on hosting an event or completing a challenge to raise money for the charity in support of Erin’s mum please email george.king@newsquest.co.uk.