By Mike Cook | 31 October 2014
Local mother-daughter duo raise more than $17,000 in support of those affected by cystic fibrosisSUNSHINE COAST – Sunshine Coast residents have rallied to support local families affected by cystic fibrosis, raising more than $17,000 over the past month.
Marion Trotter and her daughter Hannah have gained support from the local community and have banded together to support those who are battling the illness. Mrs Trotter raised $15,500 for Cystic Fibrosis Queensland using social media to reach thousands of people. Local woman Kari-Lee Birrell, 25, was an inspiration for the cause after undergoing a double lung transplant. She died last week after a long battle with the disease. Mrs Trotter was close to Mrs Birrell’s family and saw the impact of the illness. “We wanted to help as much as we could,” Mrs Trotter said. She said she was overwhelmed by the support and generosity of others. Within the first 24 hours, more than $8400 was donated. “It is also a testimony to their family and friends of just how many people care and are standing with them,” Mrs Trotter said. Mrs Trotter’s daughter, Hannah, also helped with the cause. The 17-year-old Suncoast Christian College student raised more than $1500 at a school fundraiser. “The idea was to raise money, of course, but also some awareness as that is one of the biggest problems with cystic fibrosis,” Miss Trotter said. “People just don't know about it and therefore don't know how easy it is to prevent.” Miss Trotter said the most difficult part of the project was gaining the support of her peers and she was amazed when she saw the impact she had made on her cohort. “Our stall was full of helpers,” she said. “Practically our entire grade was standing there. “I was reduced to tears.” Cystic Fibrosis Queensland education and training co-ordinator Elissa Robinson said cystic fibrosis is a genetic illness that affects the lungs and digestive system. “There is currently no cure, and people with CF [cystic fibrosis] face an average life expectancy of only 38 years,” Ms Robinson said. Close friend of Mrs Birrell’s family Emily Gould said it was inspiring to see the impact the mother-daughter duo had on the community. “People these days are so wrapped up in their own lives and it’s amazing to see everyone coming together to support the cause,” she said. |