Raise Hope for Layla at Rumours

Residents are encouraged to join a Raise Hope for Layla fundraiser at Rumours Lounge on Saturday 19 October.

With her friends, Monash South Africa student Stacey Ford is organising a fundraiser for Layla O’Neill, a four-year-old Lonehill resident who was diagnosed with neuroplasm glial ependymoma, a cancer that takes the form of a tumour or several tumours in the tissue of the central nervous system. Layla’s brain and spine are affected.

According to Sharyn O’Neill and the facebook page Raise Hope for Layla that represents the non-profit organisation of the same name, Layla was discharged from hospital on 6 September, following tests to identify a current infection.

Sharyn explains that the funds raised are towards getting Layla to Texas in the United States for an experimental proton treatment, estimated to cost the O’Neills $287 580,26 or R2,8 million, excluding the possibility of chemo therapy afterwards.

Ford, who is the drummer of the band Aiming at Shadows, says that she heard about Layla’s condition from a friend who asked whether her band could play at a fundraiser event.

“I agreed to do it and then started to organise the entire event – I must say, it has been an amazing experience.

“I am truly touched as Layla is a sweet little girl.

“It is an honour for me to be working with Sharyn O’Neill in conjunction with the fundraising team.”

Ford can confirm that bands Aiming at Shadows, 11th Hour, the Carniwhores, Casket, Sweating Blood and Monkeys in Boots will be playing at Rumours on the night.

“Organising it all has been a learning experience and an eye-opener for me.”

Ford urges residents to help her to fund the cause by attending the fundraiser event at Rumours Lounge on Saturday 19 October.

Entrance costs R100 per person and will go towards Layla’s expenses.

For more information, contact Sharyn O’Neill on 079 196 8052 or Stacey Ford on 083 638 8011.