A community fundraiser has put a local family one step closer to purchasing a wheelchair-accessible car for their 12-year-old son.
Last month, Craft Brew House at Birkdale hosted another community fundraiser led by staff member Gem Landicho and her husband Rolf for their 12-year-old son Micah.
Micah is one of their five children and is non-verbal with level-five spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy.
The young boy faces multiple health challenges including epilepsy and reflux.
After a recent eight-week hospital stay, surgeries and medication, Micah is now digesting food properly and gaining weight.
However, this gives the family a new challenge where Micah is missing out on family outings as his current car seat is no longer suitable for his needs.
The fundraiser ‘Wheels for Micah’ was packed with friends, family and the local community all coming together to raise money for a wheelchair-accessible car.
Craft Brew House owner Tracy Robson said it was fantastic to see the community help a local family.
“Gem is one of the staff members at Craft Brew House and brings Micah in to listen to the live music on Sunday afternoons,” she said.
“The purchase of a wheelchair-accessible car will ensure that Micah is able to continue to join the family on more outings.”
Almost 1000 raffle tickets were sold on the day, raising close to $2500.
Ms Robson said although these events could be emotionally tiring, seeing the community come together made it all worthwhile.
“If we can help another local family make their dreams come true, then how good is that,” she said.
The family has now raised $22,500 through online raffles, auctions and donations.
To donate, visit gofundme.com and search ‘Wheelchair accessible car for Micah’.