The mother of a young Bermudian who lost her battle with cancer last year is celebrating her daughter's birthday by raising money in her memory.

Lori Mello died at age 24 in June 2007 after a year-long battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Her mother Sharon DeSilva is celebrating what would have been the week of Lori's 26th birthday by asking Bermudians to donate to the charity set up in her honour. The Fight for Life Foundation helps local families dealing with medical bills to pay for treatments for their sick children.

"There are families that are facing staggering medical bills for potentially lifesaving treatments, along with travel and living expenses when their child needs to be treated overseas," Ms DeSilva said.

"I know too well from watching Lori suffer from cancer the strain that this disease can have on an entire family. We believe that if we can offer financial assistance, other patients and their families will also feel the love, support and compassion that Lori felt from Bermudians."

Cheques can be mailed to Kiddie Academy, Suite 1125, 48 Par-la-ville Road, Hamilton HM11 or can be dropped off at the school, at 7 Laffan Street, Hamilton, directly behind Pasta Basta.