The sheer generosity of Moree’s community brought a local family to tears following the Pull Together for Paige fundraiser on Saturday.
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Hundreds flooded through the gates of the rugby club to pull together some funds for toddler Paige Thomas, fighting the battle of her life, a sudden, and relatively unknown disease known as Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (ANE).
And although the organising committee were still counting, they were able to call Jess, Adam and little Paigey afterwards to let them know roughly $50,000 had been raised.
Pull Together for Paige Organising Committee member Brianna McNamara said after few days of decent rainfall the skies cleared just in time.
“It was a really good day, the kids corner was a big hit. The girls from Goodstart Daycare helped run the craft, cupcake decorating, face painting, jumping castle, popcorn and fairy floss; all the kids had a fun time.”
Local band Contingency Plan played in clubhouse, creating a relaxed atmosphere and after the auction Avenue for Troy took over.
Before the auction, the crowd was called in to watch a heart-clenching video of Paigey before her attack and during the rehabilitation process.
“I know people have seen the clips on ‘Paige Thomas ANE Warrior Princess’ Facebook but there was a thank you message from Jel and Hap at the end,” she said.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the room after hearing from Jess and Adam about the journey they’ve been through and what’s to come.
“They’ve been so busy with therapy, they haven’t really left Paigey’s side so it was good to share that with everyone and remind everyone why they were there.”
The auction was a great success thanks to David Watts with the help of Richard Williams.
Because the committee received so many great donations from generous local businesses, they also ran a successful silent auction.
“We got to Facetime Jel and Hap afterwards and let them know our rough figure. They were both brought to tears and were overwhelmed with everyone’s generosity.”
The committee the Lions Club for running the canteen and to the Big Sky Harley Owners for hosting motorcycle rides for the kids on Saturday.