A campaign has been launched in Exeter to fund vital treatment for a young woman suffering with an incurable illness.
Sophie Barker, 21, who grew up in Exeter, was diagnosed with lupus last year after being stung by an insect.
The condition involves the body's defence mechanism attacking itself, causing inflammation and damage in the joints, muscles and other organs.
It has exacerbated to such an extent that Sophie, a talented singer, was restricted to a wheelchair due to the severity of her joint pain.
She is also forced to wear tinted glasses because her eyes can no longer process light properly.
Unfortunately because Sophie and her family moved to Guernsey four years ago she is not entitled to free healthcare treatment on the NHS.
She has spent much of the past 12 months trying to raise funds towards the £2,500+ cost of private treatment.
Her friend Clare O'Riley, 36, who lives in Exeter, is organising a fundraising day next month to raise money for her treatment.
She said: "Lupus means that, internally, there is a war going on that she frighteningly has no control over and that causes joint pain to a level that she could never have imagined.
"As you can imagine, it is truly heart-breaking to see a friend and someone so young and full of life in so much pain. Two years ago Sophie and her dad, Danny sang for us at our wedding. Sophie loves musical theatre and had the voice to wow our guests. Unfortunately now, she cannot sing as it causes her so much difficulty - hence the name 'Sing for Sophie'."
The campaign has already gathered plenty of support, with Stephen Fry, Liverpool Football Club and local businesses donating to the cause.
The fundraising day takes place on Sunday August 24 at the Kings Arms on Cowick Street.
For more information visit the 'Sing for Sophie' Facebook page here
