Earlier this year, a routine appointment with her local doctor while suffering from tonsilitis developed into a devastating diagnosis for Tilly Walsh.
Within hours, the six-year-old from Grafton learned the symptoms she had recently been experiencing, including feeling constantly fatigued, were not being caused by a virus.
Tilly had Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukaemia (MPAL), a rare form of cancer where more than one type of leukaemia occurs at the same time.
Her heartbroken family by her side, Tilly was quickly transferred to Brisbane where she met with oncologists at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and promptly began intensive chemotherapy sessions.
While early results are promising, Tilly must continue to undergo treatment for the next two years.
In support of Tilly and her family, her friends and neighbours have organised a Helping Hands Trivia Night to be held at the Grafton District Services Club (GDSC) on Saturday, May 24.
Every dollar raised from the event will go towards the little girls ongoing medical expenses.
Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent recently, Sam Ford, one of the organisers, said after reaching out to local charity Helping Hands through the GDSC, the response from community members has been overwhelming.
“So many people have already given generously in support of Tilly and her family,” she revealed.
“Businesses from right across the Clarence Valley have donated raffle prizes and other items to be auctioned during the night.
“We’re so thankful to everyone who has made a contribution, and we really just want to do as much as we can to help Tilly and her family during this difficult time.”
Ms Ford said despite already knowing what a great community she and the Walsh family live within, the incredible volumes of donations which have been received so far in the lead up to the Helping Hands Trivia Night next month have really opened her eyes to how amazing Clarence Valley residents are.
“This fundraiser wouldn’t be as big as it has become without the generosity of so many kind and incredible people,” she said.
Bobbie Newman, who has worked at the GDSC for 20 years, has been affiliated with Helping Hands for the past decade.
She said every dollar raised through a Helping Hands event stays local and goes towards helping a family in the community in need.
“As soon as we were approached, we wanted to do as much as we could for Tilly and the Walsh family,” she said.
“I think everyone has the mentality that, ‘this person could be me’ or it could be one of their children, and I think that is why our local businesses and people throughout our community are so generous.
“We’ve received a lot of vouchers which have been donated so far, and we’ve even had a couple of tradespeople offer their services including a day’s labour which can be bought during the auction.
“People are very generous with their businesses, and their time.
“It should be a great night.”
The Helping Hands Trivia Night will commence at 7pm.
Cost is $150 for a team of six ($25 per head).
Nomination forms are available at the GDSC front desk, and payment must accompany all bookings.
Anyone interested in participating in the Helping Hands Trivia Night is encouraged to contact the GDSC on 66 403 200 or email info@gdsc.com.au