More than 250 people supported “a day for Ez”, a local event to raise awareness of the autoimmune disease Lupus.
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The day was organised by Eliza Fisher, Carly Jayet, Megan Brooks, Julie and Greg Fisher and their families.
Erin Hutchings (nee Fisher) is their daughter and sister, and has battled with Lupus for more than seven years.
Erin has been presented with an opportunity to trial the first new treatment for Lupus in more than 50 years – Benlysta.
This treatment is not currently PBS listed and can cost in excess of $15,000 in the first year, and $1000 per month in ongoing costs.
It was Erin’s journey so far that inspired her family to raise awareness for Lupus and ongoing research as well as try and help Erin out with the expensive treatment regime.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease which affects anyone, any time, with no consistent known cause. Symptoms can be very debilitating and ongoing.
The fundraiser event kicked off with a bang with live music by the talented Jordi Dwyer, a raffle with more than 40 winners with prizes kindly donated by businesses from Parkes, Forbes and beyond.
Erin’s dad Greg and husband Kyle organised some fun bowling and golf activities which so many people took part in.
Face painting and the jumping castle were a real hit with the kids (and some adults!) and there was such an amazing vibe of fun, support and laughter.
Once the afternoon sun started to set, it was time for the epic auction led by the amazing Dooley Thomson. This auction had outstanding major donations by families and business.
Organisers extend a big thank you to those very special people who showed up to fiercely contest the auction items.
Many other people and local businesses contributed beautiful packs, gifts and generous donations such as sausages and wine to make the day so successful. Kel and Sass Tildlsey and Medlyns Auto did an amazing job of generating donations from Lucinda at Rollings Wines, local pubs and restaurants, and setting up a hilariously competitive silent auction which ran throughout the day.
Close to $20,000 for Erin’s treatment and Lupus awareness was raised during the month of May.
A portion of these funds have gone to Lupus research and a portion to Erin’s trial of the new treatment.
Erin and her family are so grateful and appreciate what every individual and business have done for her and the future of Lupus research.
The efforts of everyone who made the day possible will make a huge difference in Erin’s life, the life of others – including local families - battling with Lupus every day.