Memories of a much-loved young Dubbo man have flowed at a one-of-a-kind fundraiser that’s raised more than $26,000 so far.
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Kailem Barwick continues to touch hearts 11 months on from his death, aged 19, after a battle with Ewing’s sarcoma.
He had been diagnosed with the rare form of bone cancer two years earlier.
On October 28 family, friends and supporters came together to remember the “special boy” and participate in an event that involved one of his favourite pastimes.
The response to the Kailem Barwick Dog a Hog Day For Cancer left organisers “over the moon”.
The funds raised - $26,893 to date - are going to the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, where Kailem underwent treatment.
Tony Barwick said his son had loved pig hunting and it gave him something to focus on other than his illness and treatment.
Through hunting he had made some “really good friends”, who remained there for the family.
It was one of those mates, Mathew Amor, who had been a driving force behind the Kailem Barwick Dog a Hog Day For Cancer.
“We talked about having something special for Kailem because he was a special boy,” Mr Barwick said.
Kailem’s family has been “coping as best we can” in the past 11 months.
“Losing a child is a nightmare no parent should go through,” Mr Barwick said.
The support of the community and seeing how Kailem had touched people was a help, he said.
“There are no easy days, but things are made easier by the support around us,” he said.
The Kailem Barwick Dog a Hog Day For Cancer had received overwhelming response from the Dubbo community and some great sponsors had come on board, Mr Barwick said.
Held at Tomingley’s Crossroads Hotel, the event also involved ironman and ironwoman challenges, activities for kids and more.
Mr Barwick said they estimated about 350 people turned out.
“There was a real good mood out there, everyone had a great time,” Mr Barwick said.
With the success of the event organisers now have plans to hold it annually.
The devoted dad also hopes the event raises awareness of Ewing’s sarcoma, which is usually found in children and young people.
“Hopefully they can research it more and get better treatment,” Mr Barwick said.