'Surprise Amelia - seeing the smile on her face when we arrived with the fire engine is something none of us will forget'
"Seeing the smile on her face when we arrived with the fire engine is something none of us will forget", said a fire crew who paid a surprise birthday visit to poorly pupil Amelia Kopla.
Communities including West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) staff took part in a birthday card campaign to help the youngster, who is receiving palliative care for a rare form of cancer, mark her eighth birthday on March 3 in a bid to fulfil her wish to break the world record for the most cards received on a single birthday.
On the big day Amelia, of Rowley Regis, was able to make it to Highfields Primary School where she and her classmates were treated to a surprise visit by firefighters from Haden Cross Fire Station's green watch.
Highfields' head Sarah Garratt said: “On behalf of everyone at Highfields, I want to say a huge thank you to West Midlands Fire Service for coming to see Amelia and her friends. They had an amazing time, and it was such a joy to see Amelia’s face when she realised the visit was for her.
“You really helped make her birthday not just special, but unforgettable – and we’re all so grateful for the kindness and care you showed.”
Haden Cross Watch Commander Andrew Buckler said: “Spending time with Amelia and her friends was absolutely magical. Seeing the smile on her face when we arrived with the fire engine is something none of us will forget.
“Amelia has shown incredible courage and positivity, and it was a real privilege for our team to be part of such a special birthday. The response and support she’s received from people across the country and at WMFS is truly heart-warming.
“We were delighted to bring the fire engine along for her and her friends to explore. Days like this remind us that being part of the community isn’t just about responding to emergencies – it’s also about supporting people and creating moments of joy where we can.”
More than 300,000 birthday cards were sent to her by wellwishers and Dudley's Merry Hill shopping centre also hosted a flash mob dance to mark Amelia's birthday.
