They are known as beads of courage and every one tells the next step in a courageous story.

They were given to Anais Fossey by hospital staff and each bead on the necklace represents a scan, biopsy, blood test, chemotherapy session or any other treatment she has had to endure in just four weeks.

Friends and family of the teenage girl hope to conjure up a magic holiday of a lifetime for her to enjoy when she is feeling better.

Anais is undergoing gruelling treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which was diagnosed by doctors after a lump was discovered in her neck.

Each month the 17-year-old – a former pupil at St John’s Comprehensive, Gravesend – endures a week of chemotherapy for 12 hours a day, as well as regular tests, scans and biopsies.

She is under the care of the Royal Marsden Hospital in Surrey but, due to the risk of infection, is rarely allowed out to return to her home in Gravesend.

Anais, who was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder three years ago, has several months of treatment ahead of her.

Well-wishers are already planning to raise money to send her to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Florida once she is well enough.

The first appeal event, dubbed Help Anais Kickin Cancer’s Butt Extravaganza, will be held at the Three Daws pub in Gravesend on Sunday, August 18.

An online fundraising page has also been set up.

Anais’ mum, Louisa, 39, has given up her job in a tattoo shop in the town to be at her bedside.

Two weeks ago the teenager collapsed and was taken into intensive care. She had to undergo three blood transfusions before she stabilised.

“I really thought I was going to lose her,” said Louisa. “I can’t believe how strong my daughter is. I’ve never met any young person so courageous and positive, especially one who also has to deal with bipolar too.

“Throughout this she has still managed to smile even though she thought she was dying. She is amazing and I truly am blessed to be able to call her my daughter.”

Attractions at the Three Daws include bands Cursed as Angels, Sirens & Shelter, Pressurehead and Fracture Pattern, as well as art stalls, massage, face-painting, cake stalls and a soft play area.

The fun starts at 1pm and continues until 11pm.

Entry is £5 but free for children under 12.

Anais has asked that any monies raised over the cost of the trip to Harry Potter World be donated to the Make A Wish Foundation.

For more information click here, to donate click here and follow Anais’ appeal on Twitter @HelpAnais