Family and friends of Molly Croft continue to be astounded by the “phenomenal” generosity shown by the community towards a family doing it tough.
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Molly was diagnosed with osteosarcoma – a form of bone cancer most common in children and young adults – just days after her 12th birthday. As of Monday, she had completed her fourth round of chemotherapy.
But she still faces the prospect of surgery to remove a tumour from her leg, before another 17 weeks of chemotherapy.
In spite of it all, Molly’s spirits are high and they’re set to get even higher thanks to a fundraising event being held at the Dubbo RSL Memorial Club from 6.30pm on Saturday.
Hosted by the Men of League Foundation, where father John Croft is a welfare officer, Molly’s Gala Fundraiser is aiming to help ease the financial burden on the Crofts – John, Ange, Maddie and Molly – in the months ahead.
“This event epitomises what the Men of League Foundation is all about – why we play sport in general as well, because it’s community coming together mainly through rugby league, basketball, netball,” MOL western region president Martin cook said.
“Everyone would have seen what the Crofts are going through, the challenges that Molly’s got in front of her and a bit of the old Aussie spirit, you help out those that are doing it a bit tough and certainly they’re in need.
“John and Ange have had to drop their jobs and be Molly’s side to make sure that she’s best supported and best enabled to recover from the osteosarcoma.”
Tickets to the night cost $120 which includes a three-course meal and drinks package, entertainment and the chance to bid in open and silent auctions.
Auction items range from signed State of Origin and Australian Test jerseys, right up to flights to Melbourne and tickets to the Cox Plate on October 27.
“Most of the items are holiday packages, experiences, things that people need or would normally buy so they can buy it on the night, add a bit extra and support a good cause,” Cook said.
Those unable to attend will also have the opportunity to bid online via the Molly’s Army Facebook Page.
Isaac Compton will provide the musical entertainment for the night while there will also be guest appearances by former Test cricketer Greg Ritchie and Dubbo-born NRL player Connor Watson.
As MOL is a tax concession charity, people will be able to claim tax deductions on their donations.
“It’s been very eye-opening for me, the generosity of the Dubbo people,” long-time friend Jim Kelly said.
“It’s a life-changing thing for the Croft family, they’ve had to pack up and relocate to Sydney for, it will be almost 12 months by the time hopefully everything goes well and they’re back.”
Kylie McKeown saw Molly at the long weekend, and said she was in good spirits.
“She’s definitely feeling the love,” McKeown said.
“The amount of messages that she’s receiving and all of the kind donations … give her the strength to keep going.”
Visit www.123tix.com.au/events/1932/were-doin-it-for-molly to purchase tickets.
The South Dubbo Tavern will also host a Karma Keg from 5.30pm this Friday, with all proceeds to go to Molly Croft.
For other ways to help, visit www.facebook.com/mollysarmy/
