A kids’ charity pageant raised more than $2,800 on Saturday in Abbotsford for a girl battling brain cancer.
The Love for Lilee Charity Pageant, held at Garden Park Tower, was organized by Maureen Keyes, owner of Xtreme Talent Fine Arts School.
Keyes said she wanted to do something to help Lilee-Jean Putt, almost two, who is battling an aggressive brain cancer. Keyes had never met the family.
“It (the story) just really touched me. I have a little girl who’s two,” she said.
A total of 25 participants up to age 16 competed in the Disney-themed pageant, which included a visit from “Belle” of Beauty and the Beast fame.
Lilee herself was crowned “Survivor Princess Diva.”
The People’s Choice Award for raising the most funds went to Brianna Prasad, who collected $1,100 from bottle drives, selling her pageant attire, and other initiatives.
For more information about Lilee-Jean and her fight, visit the "Love for Lilee" page on Facebook.