COMMUNITY members came together last weekend for a night of non-stop entertainment, smiles and dancing in support of four-year-old rare cancer patient Sophie Grills.

The Bush Dance fundraiser was organised by staff and the Parents & Friends Association (P&F) of St Joseph’s Primary School Bulahdelah to assist with the cost of Sophie’s ongoing treatments.

Principal Joanne Trotter said she was touched after reading Sophie’s story in the News of the Area.

“When you’re in a small area like Tea Gardens or Bulahdelah it can be very isolating, and as a school in this community we felt we had to do our part,” she said.

Mrs Trotter said the P&F were more than happy to assist and the entire community was invited.

“As a Principal you need to be part of the community, it doesn’t matter what school you represent we all need to support each other,” she said.

Mrs Trotter and other school staff demonstrated great energy during the evening enthusiastically leading the dances with the Macarena and Hokey Pokey proving popular with the young and old.

The hall was decorated with bales of hay and horse races and coin tossing competitions organised by the parents were accompanied by much cheering and laughter.

The successful evening was enjoyed by all and was a reflection of the huge effort put in by the staff and parents of the school.

St Joseph’s P&F Secretary Anita Howarth said it’s always an honour to be able to assist where needed.

“Tonight is all about lifting spirits and having a fun night out as well as raising some funds to help Sophie,” Mrs Howarth said.

“Being a mother of five children myself makes me appreciate the busyness of life and how a sick child on top of that can impact on a family.”

Sophie’s parents Robert and Rebecca said they are extremely thankful for the community support.

“We are particularly grateful to St Joseph’s School staff and the P&F who have put so much hard work into the night,” Rebecca said.

“We thank everyone involved in the organisation and also the community members for joining us and supporting Sophie.”

 

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN