By Brendan Rees
A Narre Warren teen has set up a GoFundMe fundraiser for his beloved Nanna who has degenerative eye disease, requiring laser surgery.
Riley’s Nanna cannot afford the surgery, and if she doesn’t receive it, she will go blind. According to Riley, the family also isn’t in a position to pay for it either.
“Due to Covid-19, my family does not have the financial stability to provide her with the $2200 she desperately needs for the surgery to save her vision,” Riley says on the GoFundMe page, which has raised $990.
“With the opportunity to start treatment in a week we have no other option but to turn to others who may be able to help support my Nanna in this time of need.”
Riley, 17, who is one of three grandchildren, has a close relationship with his Nanna who he says “has been an active part of my life” and “support’s me in everything I do”.
Special memories include his Nanna babysitting him as a child while his mum worked part-time; attending his kinder and school events; and watching him play basketball and football.
Riley said the coronavirus lockdown was hard to visit his Nanna in Noble Park often but contends: “We’ve checked up once or twice and she’s saying she’s been doing OK”.
Once Riley reaches the desired fundraising goal, he has vowed to shave or colour his hair, with the results to be posted on his GoFundMe page.
For those who have donated, Riley said: “Thank you for your support in this campaign – it’s much appreciated.”
To donate visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/fundraising-for-medical-bills-for-grandmother
