A MUM-of-two who has suffered with an incurable disease for more than half her life has appealed to Blackburn Rovers to help raise awareness of her condition.

Marie Malone was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in November 2014, but has suffered with the symptoms associated with the inflammatory bowel disease since 2005.

Along with her partner Zac Lowe, the 24-year-old from Oswaldtwistle has organised a fundraising event in the hope of increasing awareness of the disease.

Mr Lowe, 29, said: “Marie is due to turn 25 on March 15 but instead of celebrating her birthday we’ll be holding a fundraiser.

“She approached Blackburn Rovers to ask about a donation for the fundraiser and they’ve given us some tickets to one of their home games to auction off at our event.”

Earlier this year, Blackburn Rovers fan Tiana Thompson died from Crohn’s Disease.

Following her death, the 20-year-old’s friends and family appealed to Rovers fans to take part in a minute’s applause in the 20th minute of the club’s match against QPR at the end of January.

Mr Lowe said: “Because of what happened to Tia, Blackburn Rovers said they would like us to raise as much awareness as possible with their help.”

The fundraiser will have various stalls, tombolas and raffles and a colouring competition.

There will also be a surprise mascot attending for the children.

Mr Lowe added: “The event is free and we would love to see the room full of people as we want to make the fundraiser the best we can, mainly for Marie, as she’s giving up her birthday celebrations to raise funds and awareness for Crohns and Colitis UK.”

Miss Malone has a permanent stoma attached to her colon, and because of this, is teaching her children the importance of recognising the differences in individuals.

She wants them to understand that even though people may look the same from the outside, sometimes they can have hidden disabilities.

Miss Malone said: “Me and Zac want to raise awareness because people sometimes undermine how Crohns actually affects a person and how poorly it can leave them.

“We would like people to understand that Crohns is incurable, and it affects more than just the stomach and bowel, it affects how people think too," she added.

“We believe it’s important for everyone to be respected and looked at as individuals rather than being looked at for their illness.”

The fundraiser will take place between 1pm and 5pm on Saturday, March 14, at Church and Oswaldtwistle Conservative Club, Watson Street.