Filipino community raising funds for young Swift Current girl
A fundraising initiative by the Filipino community in Swift Current will help the family of a young girl diagnosed with DiGeorge Syndrome, an immunodeficiency condition requiring frequent tertiary care centre treatment.
The dinner fundraiser, called A Night for Amari, took place in support of two-year-old Amari Gayatenia at the Legion Hall, Oct. 16.
Her parents are Arman and Cherry Gayatenia, who have already undertaken several trips to hospitals within and outside the province for Amari's treatment.
Cherry has decided to give up her full-time employment and to work part-time while providing care to Amari and their two other children.
The Filipino community came together to organize the fundraising dinner. They gathered a group of Filipino cooks who prepared a special dinner for the event.
A total of 300 guests were treated to famous Filipino hospitality and there was a spirit of giving at the event, which included a silent auction, a 50/50 draw and musical entertainment.
The goal of this fundraising effort is to raise at least $15,000 for the family. Shirts and sweaters specially designed by Amari's six-year old sister Aryann are still being sold as part of the fundraising. It features artwork drawn by Aryann during one of the family's medical trips undertaken to Calgary.
To purchase a shirt or sweater in support of this fundraiser, go to the I Am Amari Facebook page (page address is @IamAmari.sc) or contact Mel Catimbang at 306-750-2308. For any other questions about the fundraiser and how to help, contact Icasiana de Gala by sending an e-mail to: icasiana.degala@gmail.com