Ivy’s Army rallied the troops and Australia responded, raising more than $435,000 for life-saving cancer treatment in four days.
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Donations and fundraising event suggestions came from across the country to help Ivy Steel, 6, from Hamilton who has leukaemia. The treatment she needs is only available in America.
Mum Jenna Steel made an emotional plea on the Ivy’s Army Facebook page on Sunday, asking for help to raise $400,000 and said it was Ivy’s last chance.
“I will beg, on my knees with my broken heart open to the world for someone to please help us,” she said.
“I refuse to stand by and let my child die simply because of where we live, poor timing and our lack of financial resources.”
Ivy’s story went viral and resonated locally and internationally with comments of support and donations pledged from around the world.
Ivy has Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL – a rare form of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and is battling the disease for a third time, after relapsing early this month.
Mrs Steel said the family was “so incredibly, sincerely and overwhelmingly grateful” to everyone who had “enlisted” for Ivy's fight.
“We can now move forward and focus on the next steps to getting our girl the help and treatment that she needs,” she said.
“From our family to each and every single one of you, all I can say is thank you so very much. We are forever and eternally grateful.
“This is a magnificent achievement only made possible by your love, support and commitment to helping Ivy.”
A fundraising album has been added to the Ivy’s Army Facebook page where community members can list their upcoming events.
Donations can be made to JL CM Steel ATF Iverson via BSB: 083 663 and Account: 945125101.
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