4-year-old Theo Large is described as an easy-going and fun-loving kid, who always has a bright smile on his face. Sadly, little Theo’s life changed on the 14th August 2024, when he was diagnosed with Childhood Leukaemia.
Theo was taken to the Proserpine Hospital on 14 August, as it was clear to his parents something wasn't quite right. He was taken by ambulance to Mackay hospital that evening. Theo was then flown to Brisbane by Life Flight on the 15th of August and his treatment began at the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane on 17th August.
The news has been devastating for Theo’s family. As the middle child of three, Theo's family has been temporarily divided, with Theo and his parents staying in Brisbane while his siblings are with their grandparents in Proserpine.
With the need for the community to rally around them for support, the family, alongside The Hangar Cafe and Bar have organised a community raffle to help them raise much needed funds, to help mitigate the mounting bills for ongoing treatments and travel and living expenses the family are currently enduring.
Every contribution counts. Whether you make a small donation or purchase a $20 raffle ticket online or from The Hangar Cafe and Bar, you can truly make a difference in this little boy's life. Plus, you’ll have the chance to win amazing prizes, from an acrobatic flight to a thrilling skydive over the stunning Whitsundays.
Family friend and manager at The Hangar Cafe and Bar, Dan Shoebridge, stated that the money raised from the raffle will help relieve the pressure for the family.
“It will help give some stability and normality to them, while their life's been turned upside down,” he shared.
Despite the devastating news, lovely Theo still has a smile on his face, and seems to be remaining positive.
Dan commented on how amazing the Whitsundays community has been in the midst of such turmoil, and in just 24 hours of the fundraiser being live, the community had helped raise over $9000.
“It's so overwhelming, to see the amount of support that everyone rallies together and brings, especially in the trying, tough times we're all experiencing at the moment with financial hardship, it's amazing to see people giving.”
Theo still has a long journey ahead, and with the raffle continuing on until October, you still have plenty of time to enter.
“Any funds that come through are extremely appreciated on behalf of the family.”
Help support Theo’s journey and his family by donating anything you can through this extremely difficult period.
The Whitsundays are thinking of you Theo.
Head to The Hangar Cafe and Bar Facebook page to donate or call the cafe to find out more: 0487 006 929
Four-year-old Theo battling through with a smile
Help raise funds for Theo and his family