A FUNDRAISING afternoon at a borough football club will help youngsters in the borough who have a cleft palate.
Debbie Waistell, and her daughter Isabella, 8, who has herself had a recent operation at Oxford Children’s Hospital and the Spires Cleft Centre are organising the event, called Isabella’s Fundraising Afternoon, to raise money and awareness for the condition.
During the afternoon visitors will be able to enjoy a cake stall, crafts, stalls, tombola and raffles with prizes to win.
Debbie, said: “Isabella is a such a lovely girl, and she’s always wanting to do things for other people.
“She has recently had to undergo major surgery, and the impact of that has been difficult for her.
“It can take her a while to bounce back, but it’s never long before she has a smile on her face.”
While she was recovering at the Robin ward of Oxford Children’s Hospital, Isabella was visited by a play leader who gave her a bag of toys and crafts to occupy her.
“Isabella loved this, and said to me, ‘I want to buy some more toys for other children on the ward,’ so we’re going to split the proceeds of the event between the Spires Cleft Centre where she had her operation, and the Oxford Children’s Hospital.
“I know that the hospital uses specialist x-ray equipment, which helped diagnose Isabella’s cleft palate, so we hope they can put a donation towards whatever else they need.”
The other half will help to buy items on a wish list put together by Isabella’s hospital play leader.
“Three years ago we held a similar event and raised over £1,000, so we’re hoping for a great turnout this year, Debbie continued.
“People have been so generous in the community, donating fantastic prizes, so it should be a great day.
“We’re so grateful to everyone that has helped – we’ve been given some great prizes, and one of the dads at Isabella’s school, Emmbrook Junior, has even volunteered to run a disco with his business, Express DJ.
“We couldn’t have done this without all the love and support.
“Isabella is very excited and looking forward to it.”
Debbie’s husband and sons are keeping their fingers crossed that the weather will enable them to bring along a miniature steam engine to give children rides – but this is dependant on the conditions being favourable.
The event takes place at Wokingham and Emmbrook Football Club on Sunday, June 2, from 2pm until 5pm.
Entry is free.
For more information, email: waistelldebbie@gmail.com
