Eve Jeffery
It’s hard to be ill but it’s heartbreaking when you have a child who is ill, and parents and families need help.
A local dad knows just how that feels, and he is so grateful to some amazing charities who supported his family while his son Arlo was ill, he is now fundraising so he can continue to help other families that might have to go through difficult circumstances.
Arlo’s dad Rowan says a little under two years ago his 18-month-old son was diagnosed with leukemia.
‘Although we are not through our journey, our son is in remission, and treatment is going well. What we have been through no one should have to go through.
‘Arlo missed out on being a toddler,’ says Rowan. ‘He’s had more needles, blood tests and chemicals pumped into his tiny body than most will have in a lifetime. But we are one of the lucky families.’
Rowan is hosting a children’s charity luncheon in Bangalow, which he has called Shake It For The Kids.
‘I want people to shake their hearts, their minds and their wallets. One hundred per cent of all proceeds from the event will be divided equally between Our Kids in Lismore and the Kids With Cancer Foundation.
‘We will be having massive prize auctions, raffles, music by Cass Eleven and celebrity guests including former Wallaby Jeremy Paul. Local caterers Dine Hinterland will be cooking an amazing two-course family-style feast and the infamous Bangalow Lion’s Club will be helping out with drinks.
‘So many local businesses have been incredibly generous with donations of meat, drinks, prizes, funds, goods and services. The community has really banded together.
‘Going through this has shown me how amazing our local community is. This event is my way of giving back so these charities can continue to help families like mine. I hope to see you there and enjoy a beer with you.’
The Shake It For The Kids fundraising long lunch is on 22 November at the A&I Hall, Bangalow from 12.30pm. More info can be found on Instagram at @shakeitforthekids. You can buy tickets directly through the link at Eventbrite www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shake-it-for-the-kids-tickets-72335538543.
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