by Jess Banham

The girl who needed blood to help her through a life-saving bone marrow transplant has tragically died just days before the operation.

Melanie Cottle, of Downs Road, Folkestone, was diagnosed with a rare disease of the immune and nervous system in December 2010.

The 11-year-old was one of only five people in Britain to have developed Chedial Hegashie Syndrome, which doctors believe is hereditary.

After six months of chemotherapy, Melanie was scheduled to undergo a life-saving bone marrow transplant tomorrow.

To make it through the operation, her father estimated she would want around 200 blood donors, as she would need blood infusions three times a day, three days a week straight after the operation, and until the transplant took effect.

After making an urgent appeal on Facebook, the family was overwhelmed with offers of donations but sadly Melanie passed away at the weekend.

Her father Paul Cottle said he was "devastated" and in a comment on a Facebook page set up in Melanie's memory the family added they "would like to thank everyone for their support at this very sad time and are very grateful for every kind thought, prayer, word and deed".

Melanie's funeral will take place at 4.15pm at the Hawkinge Crematorium in Folkestone on Tuesday, July 5.

She had also wanted a big party when she came out of hospital and, determined to grant her wish, her parents will also hold a party to celebrate Melanie's life from 5pm at Stripes Sports Club in Folkestone.

There will be bouncy castles, candy floss, ice cream, burgers and Melanie's favourite ride, a fairground Waltzer.

During the evening, friends and family will also send up lanterns and balloons in Melanie's memory.

Pay your tribute to Melanie below.