Fundraiser for Poppy by family and friends
By Mary Dennehy
A FUNDRAISER is being held this month for a special Tallaght four-year-old girl who was diagnosed with leukaemia only weeks before Christmas.
The friends of Poppy’s family have united in support and are staging a fundraiser in the Postal Sports and Social Club on the Kiltipper Road on Saturday, January 27 – with all money raised going to Poppy and her parents, Ken Reardon and Joanna Byrne.
Speaking with The Echo, Poppy’s mam Joanna expressed her gratitude to those organising the fundraiser.
“The support has been brilliant, we’ve been overwhelmed”, Joanna said.
“It’s not until something like this happens to a family that you realise the people you have behind you.
“Poppy’s treatment will last two-and-a-half years, and during that time I won’t be working so we’re very grateful to our friends for raising money for any expenses or bills.”
According to Joanna, Poppy was diagnosed with leukaemia after the four-year-old started complaining of pains in her stomach and legs – with the pre-schooler starting her chemotherapy treatment three weeks ago.
“Before the chemo Poppy was into everything, she loved football and hurling”, Joanna said.
“However, she is quite tired now and is starting to lose her hair but we’ve told her that she’ll get lovely, new princess hair.”
Members of the community are invited to attend the Fundraiser for Poppy on Saturday, January 27 from 8pm.
Tickets cost €10 and there will be raffle prizes and music on the night.
For further details visit the Fundraiser for Poppy event page on Facebook, which is being run by the family’s friends.
