HASTINGS residents opened their hearts and their wallets on the weekend to support a young family raising funds for the oncology ward at the Westmead Children’s Hospital.
The Kids Like Kobi fund-raiser held at the Settlers Inn in Port Macquarie on Saturday afternoon was an outstanding success, attracting more than 100 people and raising thousands of dollars.
Attractions included Harley rides by the Hastings American Motorcycle Club, a jumping castle, raffles, auctions and music by The Black Birds.
“In all, with raffles leading up to the day, and on Saturday itself, we have raised about $8000,” Amanda Deeks said.
“We were overwhelmed – I cried when I saw how much.”
Amanda decided to organise the fund-raiser because of the stellar care and treatment her son Kobi received at the hospital during a long battle with cancer.
It was staged on Kobi’s eighth birthday, also the fifth anniversary of when he received a bone-marrow transplant at Westmead.
Amanda said the list of people who donated goods and helped was a long one, including the Settlers Inn, local motorcycle clubs, cafes and businesses like the Good Guys and Anaconda and the band The Black Birds, who donated their time.
“You guys at the Independent also helped with advertising and publicity,” Amanda said.
“Also many people not in business donated bicycles and teddy bears and things to be auctioned. I just cannot get over how generous everyone has been.”
The proceeds will be deposited directly into the hospital’s account, but Amanda plans to take a cheque down to present it in person to the hospital in early November.
“I have seen first-hand the devotion and quality for excellence displayed by the doctors, nurses and staff,” Amanda said.
“Although they provide such high-quality care, the ward is very limited because of a severe lack of funding and I really hope this money goes to make things a little better for all the children who have to face the same battle Kobi has.”
