A NEWPORT woman has organised an event in memory of her late daughter to mark what would have been her 18th birthday.

Melanie Fisher's daughter Katelyn Lazare, a pupil at St Joseph’s High School, died at Cardiff’s University Hospital of Wales on Thursday, December 27, 2018, shortly after falling ill.

She was 15 years old.

Katelyn was passionate about dancing and was a popular member of the Le Clare School of Dance in Newport.

A week before falling ill with meningitis, she had been dancing on stage at the Dolman Theatre for the dance school’s latest shows.

The ‘Ultimate Party in the Neon’ event has been organised by Ms Fisher in celebration of  what would have been her daughter's landmark 18th birthday.

The event will take place on Friday, October 8.

"Katelyn would have been like a bottle of pop on her birthday, as she always was," Ms Fisher said.

"She would have been so excited for all the new adventures that life allows at that age, especially getting her first car and learning how to drive.

"She definitely would have wanted a big celebration she loved a good party, loved being around the people she cared for and was always the life and soul."

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All funds raised will be donated to the Meningitis Research charity in Katelyn’s memory.

The plan is to have a night of variety with events planned for all ages.

  • From 5pm to 7pm - fun and games for younger attendees
  • From 7pm to 8.30pm - remembrance and memorial
  • From 9pm until late - music for older teens and adults

"Community support has been invaluable to help make my celebration and fundraising wish a reality," Ms Fisher said.

"Katelyn used to love going to the U18 nights (at the Neon) with her sister Nicole."

Events on the day will include:

  • CharactersNCo will be donating two hours entertainment including games, festival glitter, mascots and their famous human whack-a-mole castle. Ms Fisher said this is "particularly special as Katelyn used to work for this company".
  • Katelyn Tribute dances from LeClares School of Dance, the dance school where Katelyn danced and idolised the teachers.
  • A video projection and digital photo slideshow depicting Katelyn's life.
  • A raffle.
  • DJ sets from Oliver Harvey and Matt Kirke and a performance from Murkage.

Tickets cost £3 and can be purchased from via Facebook page Katelyn's Kall.