An 11-year-old from Norwich 'squealed' with delight when she found out the tumour on her arm was benign.

Eastern Daily Press: Tequila Constance has got the all-clear and is looking forward to getting back to drawing again. Picture: Tequila BarnardTequila Constance has got the all-clear and is looking forward to getting back to drawing again. Picture: Tequila Barnard (Image: Archant)

And now her family has thanked strangers across the world who sent more than 2000 cards and gifts to 'keep Faith smiling' while she was awaiting treatment.

Faith Constance, 11, of Appleyard Crescent, Mile Cross, was diagnosed with Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma in December 2016 after finding a lump on her arm.

After surgery on December 30 to remove the mass on her elbow and carry out more tests to determine which type of cancer she had it was a waiting game until the tests came back.

But they received the call they'd been longing for this week which confirmed the tumour was benign and no further action was needed.

Eastern Daily Press: Faith Constance and her parents Ady and Tequila Barnard have been overwhelmed by the response to the appeal. Picture: James Bass PhotographyFaith Constance and her parents Ady and Tequila Barnard have been overwhelmed by the response to the appeal. Picture: James Bass Photography (Image: (C)James Bass 2016)

Tequila Barnard, Faith's mum, said: 'We got a phone call on Wednesday about 5.30pm. When I answered he told me the results are back and it's really good news.

'We just need to go back in three months as she has had some nerve damage and scar tissue, but it's nothing to be worried about.

'I called Faith from her bedroom and told her and she was so happy. After what we'd all been through it was overwhelming. There wasn't any words, I sat there in shock.'

Mrs Barnard has thanked the thousands of well-wishers who sent cards and gifts to her daughter, following her Facebook appeal to 'Keep Faith smiling' during her ordeal.

Eastern Daily Press: One of the 'tokens for Faith' was a visit from reindeers to her home in December. Picture: Tequila BarnardOne of the 'tokens for Faith' was a visit from reindeers to her home in December. Picture: Tequila Barnard (Image: Archant)

The appeal asked people to send her kind messages to help Faith through her treatment, but she never expected how far it would reach.

She added: The reason I started the appeal in the first place was because I couldn't find the words to say. What do you say to an 11-year-old with cancer? The stranger support has kept us smiling as well as Faith.'

Over 2000 cards were sent from across the world including Australia, America, Spain and France.

Gifts included 'jars of happiness' with positive messages inside, an iPod touch and even a visit from reindeer.

Faith now wants to give back to others, and they have already given one of their puppies to a poorly boy who lives nearby.

Faith said. 'I squealed when I found out I was going to be OK as it meant I could stop worrying and get back to doing what I love which is drawing.

'I tried to stay calm during the treatment, but I had days where I would worry too much and would hide in my room.

'The presents meant a lot as it showed how much people really care.

'I'm going to make some cards and presents for others now as it's important to give something back to those that have given to you.'