A charity which aims to raise £80,000 for life-changing surgery for a Belfast toddler has been selected as the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) NI’s Charity of the Year for 2016.
Cavan’s First Steps, which is raising much-needed funds for two-year-old Cavan O’Neill who has Spastic Diplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy, was chosen by the Institute’s Committee. The body hopes to help the youngster, who is from Dunmurry, take his first steps through pioneering surgery in the United States.
This year the CIPR NI aims to raise massive funds towards the £80K total, through donations at CIPR events and specifically-created fundraising events, as well as offering pro bono advice and support to the charity. Cavan’s First Steps has already hit over 50% of its target since it began fundraising in October 2015, standing at almost £50,000.
Speaking at the launch of the partnership, CIPR Chair Samantha Livingstone, said, “So many people have been touched by little Cavan’s story and the fact that the charity has already raised so much money says it all really. The family are so brave and determined and we are delighted that the CIPR will be able to help them achieve their ultimate goal of seeing Cavan take his first steps.”
Cavan’s parents, Emma and Diarmuid O’Neill, say the £80,000 will cover spinal surgery known as Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy in Missouri, post-operative equipment, therapy and rehabilitation.
Emma said, “Cavan has Spastic Diplegia which affects his legs due to tight muscle tone and spasticity. This makes it difficult for him to walk and to even stand. We know he will never be able to run around or bounce up and down, just like other wee boys do, but to see him walk would be the most incredible feeling for him and for us. Cavan is funny and mischievous and we will do all we can to help him. To have the support of PR professionals around Northern Ireland is really moving. They are the people I’ve worked closely with since I entered the media world here over 16 years ago. I know that the support from CIPR will be instrumental in getting us to St Louis for this operation and I can’t thank you enough.”
For more information, please visit www.justgiving.com/cavansfirststeps/
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