A mum who was trolled for crowdfunding for a family holiday to Disney World, has now raised more than enough for the “once-in-a-lifetime adventure”.
Nikki Smith, from Bristol, set up a GoFundMe page asking for donations to take her 10- and 12-year-old daughters to Disney World, but took it down after strangers called her a “scrounger”.
However, following support from friends and an anonymous donor, she reinstated the appeal and has since raised more than £6,000.
“I will not be shamed because I wanted to do more for my children,” Smith wrote.
”If I had lied and said one of my children was ill when they weren’t to raise the money I could have understood the backlash but I was totally upfront and honest,” Smith explained.
“I made this page because a few people I know told me they had funded their travel in this way and I thought well I can at least try.
“I never meant to upset anyone. I’m traumatised by the abuse and negativity I have received and only put this back up because a lot of people said I should.
“I won’t let anyone bully me anymore. Online trolls are hurtful and cruel, I haven’t hurt anyone and I was only trying to fulfill my children’s dreams.”
In her original crowdfunding page Smith, who works as a carer, explained that by the time she would be able to save up enough money to take her girls on this holiday-of-a-lifetime, they would be too grown up to enjoy it.
She has now issued a heartfelt thanks to everyone who has made a donation.
“I am ever so grateful for every donation, large or small,” she wrote.
“This kindness has helped restore my faith in humankind.”
Before You Go
