East Gwillimbury’s Danielle Perry is only four years old, about to be five. While most kids her age would eagerly look forward to unwrapping presents on their birthday- bubble-making machines, Rapunzel dolls, giant craft kits and colouring books – Danielle has decided to forego gifts altogether.
She has instead asked her friends to donate money to Get RecD, a Newmarket-based charity which raises funds to support cancer patients. This is Danielle’s second year in a row doing so – last year she raised $152 and presented the cheque at Get RecD’s Annual Golf and Dinner Event. This year again, money will also be raised through raffle ticket purchases, and personal and corporate donations. The goal this time is $300.
Danielle’s party (organized by Danielle and her mother, Erin Perry of You’re So Crafty) will have all the fun imaginable for the tiny guests – beanbag toss, 10 meter dash, obstacle course through trees, soccer shoot out – but without the material fuss that can characterize some parties today. Danielle and her mother, attendees and those donating will also have the satisfaction of knowing that they have assisted cancer patients who are in need of financial, emotional or psychological help. Get RecD has helped many people including Cameron, a young cancer patient, who was able to enjoy a stay at a resort in Blue Mountain with his family which they could not have otherwise afforded. Cameron’s mother writes on the testimonial page of Get RecD,
I just wanted to thank you and Get Rec’d for an incredible stay at Blue Mountain. Cameron and Austin had a great time exploring the resort and of course, the water park. I wish you could have heard Cameron’s giddy laughter going down the Ridge Ride. It’s sort of like a roller coaster down the side of the mountain. I have to admit, I had my own permanent grin on the way down. Thank you again for the wonderful break!”
Hopefully, this party will inspire other families in a small but growing movement to consider making a difference in the lives of others through fundraiser birthday parties.
Please join Danielle, the little girl with the big heart, in her cause by contacting Erin Perry at aeperry @ rogers.com or 905-895-0363. 905-895-0363.
