GENEROUS donors have responded to the pleas of a woman desperately raising money to pay for her mother’s funeral.

Eleesha Painter said she was overwhelmed by the kindness she has received since she turned to crowdfunding for help.

The 22-year-old’s mother, Ayshea Nicholls, had battled a series of health problems before she died on August 17 at Eastbourne District General Hospital.

Eleesha, from Brighton, had researched numerous funeral services but they were charging up to £5,000.

But since the young mother’s story was published in The Argus, a flood of people came forward to help her.

She said: “When the story came out in the Argus, I had so many donations and so much support.

“There was a donation of £1,200 from an anonymous person and also another from Jo Brewer from the insurance company Protect Line who donated nearly £1,500.

“I owe everything to the two of them.

“Because of them and all the other donations made by many people I have been able to plan a funeral for my mum.

“Jefferies Funeral Home in Portslade has agreed to hold the service for my mother at the best price and celebrant Stephanie Hike from the Institute of Funerals has agreed to do it for free.

“I’ve even got messages of support from my mum’s schoolfriends who she hadn’t seen for years.”

Businesses and organisations have also offered to help Eleesha.

The Glynde Flower shop in Glynde has offered to provide a spray of flowers free.

Down To Earth, which provides practical support for those struggling to pay for a funeral, advised Eleesha on funeral planning.

Eleesha said: “I want to thank everyone who has helped me through such a difficult time.

“Thank you for all your support.”

Celebrant Ms Hike said she really wanted to help Eleesha after reading her story. She said: “My mother died when I was 17, and she was 47. When I saw Eleesha’s story it struck a chord with me.

“She’s been through so much, I’m glad I could help.”

Ms Nicholls’ service will take place tomorrow at Woodvale Crematorium in Brighton at 11.30am.