On Saturday, the Wee Waa community did what it does best: it rallied for a local in need.
Back, Cohen Maxwell, Ernie Maxwell, Josh Maxwell, Luke Humphries, Aden Holcombe, Torin Maxwell, Kurt Maxwell, Jess Maxwell, David Avery, Toby Maxwell; middle, Rob Downey, Phoebe Paulston, Essie Maxwell, Mack Hamilton, Blake Hamilton, Tanner Maxwell, Sheree Maxwell, Cady Davies, Alex Hewson, Madison Hewson, Mackenzie Phillips, Laylah Phillips; front, Henry Maxwell, Jax Hamilton, Hudson Holcombe, Leo Hamilton, Laycey Maxwell, Isla Maxwell, Lucy Maxwell, Emma Maxwell and Fiona Maxwell. Photos: Leslie Hardman.
The sun came out after the rain as friends and family flocked to the Wee Waa Golf Club to support the Family Fun Day event for Piper Maxwell.
Samantha Marchant and Hayley Jenkins.
Organisers said they were overwhelmed by the generosity of attendees, who dug deep and travelled from near and far to get behind the important day.
Sheree Maxwell and Tash Maxwell.
As previously reported, the district’s mighty community spirit has been on display, with locals supporting the Maxwell family after Taylor and Stacey’s daughter, Piper, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood cancer.
Toby Dewson, Leyton Caroll and Bailey Crutcher.
The five-year-old Wee Waarian is known for being ‘an outgoing little social butterfly’ who loves spending time with her younger brother Laetyn and playing with her many cousins.
Ruby and BJ Cruickshank, Amanda and Mason Humphries, Joycee Byrne, Daisy Cruickshank.
However, since May, Piper’s treatment has meant extended time away, taking the family to Tamworth, Newcastle and Sydney.
Locals have wanted to make sure the Maxwells feel supported through this incredibly challenging time, far from home, as the family focuses on Piper’s health while facing the financial pressure of time off work, travel for treatment and long hospital stays away from the comfort of friends and family.
Maeve Wasley.
Piper’s aunt Essie Maxwell said the messages of support mean the world to the family.
On Saturday, ‘Team Piper’ was out in full force, wearing purple shirts and organising Piper’s Family Fun Day Fundraiser. Piper chose the colour purple for the shirts.
It kicked off with golf and was followed by a packed afternoon of activities for the kids, including a spectacular lolly drop; from a colour fun run to face-painting, egg and spoon races, plus a letter decorating station, where people could create a special letter or picture to send to Piper to help brighten her days while she undergoes treatment.
Fiona Maxwell, Mack Hamilton and Delfi Leguizamon.
Essie thanked the local businesses and individuals who donated their time, talents and services to make the day such a success, whether it was supporting the auction, helping with the set-up, or spreading the message to fundraise and raise awareness about childhood cancer.
Piper, Quinn and Laura Kelly with Chelsea and Erin Humphries.
“We would just love to put a big emphasis on the community for digging so deep to get behind Piper,” said Essie.
“So much time, energy and love went into every little detail, and it was all done for one very special little girl and her family.
Colby Cowan and Blake Hamilton.
“It certainly wasn’t a small job, but everyone rolled up their sleeves and made it happen.
“The love behind this day was something truly special, and you should all be so incredibly proud of what you helped create.
Ruby Head, Ainsley Bell and Harper Cruickshank.
“To each and every one of you, thank you.
“I would also love to add a massive thank you to the surrounding communities. All pitching in, whether that was donations, travelling out for the day or even just sharing our posts.
Mack Hamilton.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us show Piper, Taylor, Stacey and Laetyn that no matter how far away they are, they will never fight this battle alone.
“This is what community is all about.”
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