Kilometres for Kayla

TODAY was something truly special – we are so incredibly proud to have pulled off such a successful 3km for Kayla event and even more proud to see our amazing community show up in such huge numbers to support Kayla and her family.

These were the words of young business owner Cooper Williams at the end of a hugely successful community event to raise funds for Kayla Poss, a local teenager in the fight of her life against an aggressive brain tumour.

Cooper’s business The Yard Cafe & Wine Bar in the CBD was the control centre of the event, with participants gathering in the car park for final instructions and an enthusiastic start.

Carolyn Palmer, Tanya and Zoe Palmer.

“To everyone who walked, ran, donated, volunteered, bought raffle tickets, grabbed a coffee, or simply came along to show your support – thank you,” Cooper said.

“Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can say.”

Cooper described Kayla as one of ‘the kindest and most hardworking people you would ever meet’.

“Kayla has been part of The Yard family since we opened our doors and has shown up every day with a smile on her face, spreading kindness and positivity to everyone around her,” Cooper said.

“Now, it’s our turn to show up for Kayla.”

The 14-year-old St Mary’s College student has been diagnosed with a low-grade glioma – a slow-growing brain tumour located in her brainstem.

“Due to the location of the tumour, surgery isn’t a safe option, meaning her amazing medical team has been closely monitoring her through regular MRI scans,” Cooper said.

“Sadly, Kayla’s latest MRI showed that the tumour has grown and it is now time for treatment to begin. While this wasn’t the news anyone was hoping for, we are very grateful that Kayla has such an incredible team of doctors and specialists supporting her every step of the way.”

Arthur Graham, Cooper Williams and Tom Beer were the first three to cross the line.

Kayla began testing and treatment on 11 August, at the Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, where she will be closely monitored throughout this process, with regular MRI scans to track her progress and see how her body responds to treatment.

During this next chapter, Sydney and Ronald McDonald House will become a home away from home for Kayla and her family, Cooper said on his Facebook page.

“Although this means more time away from home, they are surrounded by an incredible community of support and care,” Cooper said.

“Today was a beautiful reminder of what our community is capable of when we come together. Many of you know Kayla and the hard journey she has been facing.

“Every step, every donation and every person who joined is a reminder to Kayla that she has an entire community standing beside her.”

The 3km fun run kicked off at The Yard at 8am with keen runners heading off along Conadilly Street followed by the walkers, dogs and prams.

Meanwhile, back at The Yard, children lined up at the face-painting stand donating a gold coin for Kayla, while hundreds of raffle tickets went in the barrel for a chance to win a prize in the giant competition boasting an impressive range of donated gifts.

Lindsay and Karen Mainey, who are part of the FiftyOne Awareness group, organised the meat tray raffles at The Gunnedah Hotel to raise more funds for the family.

Many participants stayed on for breakfast with every coffee, meal or purchase made from 8am to 10am helping to support Kayla and her family.

“We are so grateful to everyone who put on their running shoes to show Kayla the same love and support she has shown everyone else since the day she joined The Yard family,” Cooper said.

A large crowd gathered at The Gunnedah Hotel later that night to draw the raffle tickets and acknowledge the many generous donors.

The Gunnedah Hotel was also a hive of activity on the Friday night, with the team from FiftyONE Awareness organising meat tray raffles, with all funds raised going straight to Kayla and her family.

MARIE HOBSON