THE family of a little girl who spent her 12th birthday in a coma are praying for her full recovery.

Tia Llewellyn, from Milford Haven, has been diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma – an aggressive form of childhood cancer that is attacking her whole body.

As well as cancer of the bone marrow, Tia has tumours in her neck and bladder.

The youngster, who loves pop music and attends her local youth club, has been given a five per cent chance of making a full recovery.

Just a month ago, Tia was settling in to her first year at Milford Haven Secondary School, and was looking forward to her birthday.

Now, her family are gathered around her bedside at the Heath Hospital, in Cardiff, hoping she wakes up from her induced coma.

Tia’s nan, Linda Howlin, 62, said: “It’s been an absolute nightmare, horrendous.”

An online fundraiser, started by Tia’s aunt Kerryanne Clayton, has already raised more than £3,500, which the family hopes could help pay for expert care.

“The best places are in America, but there is also a specialist in her condition in Ireland,” said Linda, who added she had been overwhelmed with the amount raised so far.

“We have a large family and know a lot of people, but the response from people we don’t even know has been incredible.”

Tia’s mum Sarah has had to give up work to be at her daughter’s bedside, and the family is taking it in turns to make sure someone is with her whenever possible.

Speaking earlier this week, Sarah said: “She deserves to live her life. If we can get her a specialist doctor then we can get my baby better.”

The family have also thanked doctors in Cardiff, and children's cancer charity LATCH, which has provided an apartment for Sarah, helping ease the pressure of the five-hour round trip from Pembrokeshire.

To help Tia’s family, click here.

A Raise the Roof bingo night to raise money for Tia has also been organised at British Legion Club in Milford Haven on January 13, from 5pm until 10pm.

UPDATE: Since this article was the posted yesterday, the fundraising total has grown to more than £7,000.

LATEST UPDATE: Click here.