In an incredible show of support, the Orbost community raised a remarkable $57,718.40 for the BrAshA-T Foundation last weekend, bringing the local tally to an astounding $194,705 raised since young Jarrah Beveridge was diagnosed with Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT).
The foundation, created by Sean and Krissy Roebig in Brisbane in 2007 after their children Brady and Ashleigh were diagnosed with the rare disease, aims to fund research into finding a cure and offers a support network for affected families.
Saturday’s event at the Orbost Club Hotel saw the entire community rally behind Jarrah, who, in his usual calm manner, took the lively celebration in
stride.
Diagnosed at just two years old in 2021, Jarrah is now at the heart of a community effort to raise awareness and funding for AT research in which the community answers the call time and time again.
A-T is a rare and incurable disease often described as the worst parts of cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and cystic fibrosis.
Throw in a dose of cancer and lung disease and you have a general picture of this relentless condition which affects only a very small portion of children worldwide.
Held outdoors under perfect skies last Saturday morning, the family-friendly event offered activities for everyone.
Kids delighted in face painting, cupcake decorating and bouncing on jumping castles with toddlers enjoying the soft play area, with special appearances by characters like Peppa Pig, Bluey, and Dorothy the Dinosaur.
The Rotary Club of Orbost kept everyone energised with snow cones and fairy floss, while the pub owners were kept busy turning out sausages fresh off the barbecue.
Later in the evening, the community reconvened for Jarrah’s Journey Ball, a formal event attended by more than 200 people.
Guests mingled over cocktails to light tunes by Ryan Shore and Jamie Spicer, and an array of finger food was served.
A heartfelt moment followed as Jarrah’s mother, Casey, took the stage to express her gratitude, joined by a video from Jarrah’s specialist, Dr Dave Coman.
Families of other AT sufferers shared their experiences, moving the audience and deepening the community’s resolve to support the cause.
The spirited auction led by Dick Johnstone raised the stakes, with locals enthusiastically bidding on items for charity from everything such as trampolines to a children’s motorcycle.
“We honestly cannot express just how thankful we are to the community for their generosity and attending the event,” Casey Beveridge said.
“We truly are so appreciative and blown away, I can’t even find the words.”
With the community’s contributions, Jarrah’s Journey inspires hope for continued AT research, giving strength to families navigating this challenging diagnosis.
The Orbost community’s commitment to helping the BrAshA-T Foundation has proven that, even in a small town, big things can happen.
