SCHOOL pals of a Bolton girl fighting for life after months in a coma have donated their pocket money to the hospital which is trying to save her.

Thirteen year old Gemini Patel, a pupil at Hayward School, Bolton, is lying in a coma at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Pendlebury, suffering from a mystery virus which threatens her life.

Gemini was taken ill with the mystery virus at the start of the summer break. For months she was on a ventilator at the RMCH battling for her life.

Five weeks ago Gemini was taken off the ventilator although a brain scan has revealed the chances of recovery are slim.

Gemini is the youngest of four girls who, before her illness, enjoyed school, her school friends, family and everyday teenage interests. Her father Mr Ramesh Patel who runs a newsagent shop on Morris Green Lane, said: "The children's efforts are tremendous and we're terribly pleased they have raised money for the hospital.

"Since Gemini was admitted the dedication and care of the staff has impressed all of my family.

"We are now having to come to terms with the fact that the hopes of recovery are quite slim but we still haven't given up all hope," he added.

The money collected by pupils in years seven, eight and nine amounts to £363 and a cheque for this amount will be presented to a representative of the hospital at the lower school assembly on November 14.

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