A Pink Up day hosted by Gunnedah CWA has raised $3800 for a young family supporting their two-year-old through cancer treatment.
Gunnedah was moved when little Tori Kember was diagnosed with liver cancer in July. The community and charities have since shown up to help in various ways, one being the family day fundraiser on Saturday.
Pink was everywhere, from balloons, clothes, hair spray, decorations and more to bring more funds into a Pink Up account in Tori’s name.
Youngsters particularly loved the Play-Doh, cupcake and biscuit decorating while all patrons enjoyed the live music from the Gunnedah Conservatorium, community entertainment, raffle along with morning tea.
Particularly children could be seen with their perfect cupcake creations and crazy hair, but volunteers were also in full force making the day full of fun, entertainment and treats.
The Gunnedah Times previously reported on the two-year-old’s diagnosis in July.
Tori is the daughter of Katie Norsworthy and Cody Kember, and twin sister of Hailie – who is a big supporter of her sister.
An update from Katie was read out by volunteer and organiser Mikaela Elsley, letting participants know how all is going in Sydney.
Tori had her liver transplant and instead of being in hospital for 8-10 weeks as anticipated, she was discharged after just two weeks and five days.
The toddler is on 16 medications a day for her liver transplant and when on chemo there is an additional five more.
Tori still has two and a half full rounds however if all goes perfectly her last chemo will be before Christmas.
“The doctors and surgeons are so shocked with how she recovered from her transplant and have said how strong she is,” Katie wrote.
“We appreciate everyone back home supporting her and having her in their thoughts, while we are fighting the battle here, everyone back home is rallying to help us through the unimaginable.
“We appreciate every single person and can’t wait to catch up when we are all home.”
Mikaela had a personal reason to get involved. She and Katie have been friends for more than 20 years.
“She’s one of my friends and want to support her, her little girl and her family,” she said
She already had an inkling the day was
successful from the amount of raffle tickets sold and the support of the community within a few hours.
“[The Gunnedah CWA is] very grateful to help Katie and her family,” Mikaela said.
