Bringing hope to each country town
TRAVELLING from Donald, Victoria and finishing in Pallamallawa in northern NSW, the Riverina Redneck Rally is a seven-day charity event raising money for Country Hope, a family support organisation for children diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Last Friday, more than 90 rally cars with some 150 participants stopped in Dubbo, dressed in superhero costumes to commemorate their appreciation for the growth of the organisation.
Dubbo mother, Erin Ray, shared her story of how Country Hope has assisted throughout the journey of her son, Mitchell, who was six years old when he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, Australia’s most common cancer for babies and toddlers.
With the common age of diagnosis being two years old, Mitchell completed his first year of school in between treatments.
Relocating her family’s life to Sydney, Mrs Ray was informed that the treatment process would take 13-18 months.
Mitchell was diagnosed four days before baby Connor was born, with his first chemo session being on the day of his baby brother’s arrival.
Mrs Ray said Connor experienced health difficulties when he was born having to undertake two surgeries, one at four weeks, the other at six weeks.
The challenge of both her sons needing medical attention coincided with the pandemic first impacting Australia.
When she discovered Country Hope, Ms Ray felt instant relief as she was speaking directly to a charity and not through a third-party.
“Country Hope (was) there for me, whether I needed financial, social or any practical assistance,” she continued, saying Country Hope put money directly into their account as grocery vouchers were not attainable during the lockdown period.
“The organisation gave us plenty of support during an overwhelming time,” Mrs Ray shared that Mitchell’s cancer mutated quickly, but he remained happy during the final moments of his life.
“Our house is haunted, but in the most beautiful way,” Mrs Ray expressed that she is currently experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and trying to survive each day with grace.
Mitchell Ray died on December 6 2020, two weeks after his seventh birthday.
Mrs Ray said that during a time when no one felt like celebrating the festive season, Country Hope
was generous enough to supply a hamper.
Riverina Redneck Rally riders Drack Russell, Darren James and Ricky Hard expressed their passion for Country Hope and said they want to raise money for a supportive charity.
This year the rally raised more than $550,000 with Ricky Hard and his team alone gathering more than $70,000.
Mr Russell said all the riders get involved in the event and are very supportive of the families in need.
“We’re all here for a good cause and to help the children and their families.”