Schools and businesses across the Isle of Wight showed their support for a very special cause on Friday (February 7).
The 'Wear What Makes You Happy Day' saw more than 80 schools, pre-schools and businesses leave behind their uniforms and don clothing that brought a smile to their face to support the fundraising appeal for Arlo Lambie to access the medical care and support he needs.
In October, teenager Arlo started suffering minor headaches, but this quickly spiralled into hydrocephalus, leading to urgent neurosurgery and a diagnosis of a rare type of grade 4 brain tumour.
The family needs to raise £100,000 and have been unable to work full-time while caring for Arlo.
Here's a look at some of the dazzling outfits which helped to raise money for the cause on Friday as Island schools joined forces.
Wroxall Primary School
Pupils wore their "happy clothes" to support Arlo's fundraising.
A spokesperson for the school said:
"We have combined this with our number day so children also spent the day focusing on fun maths related activities and stories.
"Our caterers joined in by baking the children delicious heart-shaped chocolate cookies to purchase in order to raise more funds."
Furzehill Childcare Centre
Children, parents and staff all dressed in colourful clothing last Friday:
Brighstone Primary School
Pupils and staff arrived at Brighstone CE Primary school on Friday wearing what makes them happy.
They had the opportunity at break time to buy cookies made by the kitchen cook, with all proceeds going towards supporting Arlo.
As a small school with only 85 pupils, they managed to raise £200 including donations from Brighstone Preschool.
A spokesperson said:
"We send heartfelt warm wishes to Arlo on his journey to recovery."
Medina College
Headteacher, Kam Bains, said:
"It is great how a community coming together can make a difference to the lives of others around us.
"We have really enjoyed seeing the students in their happy clothes today and are proud of how they have donated generously to support Arlo and his family.
"We send our best wishes to Arlo and his family."
Student Francesca commented:
"I love mufti day and especially for a cause as important as this.
"My brother used to play basketball with Arlo and we are hoping to see him back on the court soon.
She continued:
"You are a role model for your family, friends and everyone around you.
"Seeing the positives in the negatives is something not many people can do.
"I wish you all the best! Hold tight and keep strong."
Fellow student, Alfie R, added:
"Today is important for Arlo and his family.
"It is important to help others in need and to have fun because this could happen to anyone."
Arreton St Georges CE Primary School
Children at Arreton St Georges CE Primary School were asked why what they are wearing makes them happy, or if they had a message for Arlo.
Here are some of the thoughts they wanted to share:
"Thank you Arlo, for making us feel happy today"
"Don't give up"
"Arlo, I hope you feel better soon and I hope you get the treatment you need"
"Good luck when you get your treatment"
"You are a nice boy and I wish you luck"
"To Arlo, I don't know you but I hope you get better soon"
"I'm really happy that our school could do this for you. It's amazing that other schools have helped too. I feel happy about the money raised and I hope you feel better soon."
So far the school has raised £127 with more to be added.
Forest Edge School
The specialist independent SEMH school on the Isle of Wight was keen to support Arlo's journey and wore what made them happy instead of uniform.
A school spokesperson said:
"This was a great end to Children's Mental Health Week and we want to wish Arlo positivity on his journey through treatment.
"His kind and positive attitude has been an inspiration to all of us in school."
Island VI Form
As students do not wear uniform at the VI Form, teachers encouraged everyone to wear something bright.
Head of School, Phil Pearce-Jones, said:
"It has been lovely to see so many students wearing something bright and colourful and making donations to this worthy cause."
Nine Acres Primary School
Maisy Louise Moore, age 11, was one of many pupils who dressed up - wearing her favourite Stitch pyjamas and 'Oodie'.
Theatretrain Isle Of Wight
Students, ranging from 3-18 years, wore what makes them happy, in support of Arlo.
The group raised £312.52 as of the weekend, with potential for a few more donations this week.
Elsie-Marie Moody, Theatretrain student, age 6, said:
"It's important that we help because Arlo isn't very well, and we need to raise money to help him better.
"The Isle of Wight is like a big family, and families always help each other."
Carisbrooke College
Executive Headteacher, Natalie Sheppard, said:
"It was an honour to stand with the other Island organisations taking part in the mufti day for Arlo.
"We send all of our love and strength to Arlo and his family and hope that our contribution helps to get him the treatment he needs."
Carisbrooke College has raised £732.98 so far in donations.
Medina College
Headteacher, Kam Bains, said:
"It is great how a community coming together can make a difference to the lives of others around us.
"We have really enjoyed seeing the students in their happy clothes today and are proud of how they have donated generously to support Arlo and his family.
"We send our best wishes to Arlo and his family"
Priory School
A range of fantastic images and outfits from the East Cowes based faculty:
Gurnard Toddlers
Gurnard Parent and Toddler Group supported Arlo’s journey and the ‘Wear What Makes You Happy’ event.
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School
A statement from the East Cowes school said:
"Our wonderful pupils at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School embraced the spirit of happiness with their 'Wear What Makes You Happy' mufti day.
"A special shoutout to Arlo, we're sending you our positive vibes and love today."
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