A heartwarming community event is set to take place on Saturday, as residents of Minmi come together to support a five-year-old boy courageously battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. The fundraiser, titled 'Show Up for Odyn,' aims to lift the spirits of Odyn Horsch and his family during an incredibly challenging time.
Odyn, a resident of Minmi, has been undergoing treatment at John Hunter Children's Hospital, facing each session with a brave smile. His mother, Tahleaha Horsch, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support from the close-knit community. 'The love, support and kindness shown to our family during this time has meant more than we could ever put into words,' she said.
The idea for the fundraiser originated with three local mothers, who were later joined by a fourth. Co-organiser Tracey Medley explained that the event provides a chance for the community to come together, show love, and raise funds. 'The family shouldn't have to be worried about the day-to-day life struggles,' Mrs Medley said. 'If something like this were to happen to your child, you'd hope to have the backing of your community.'
Odyn was diagnosed with cancer in January and has already completed seven cycles of chemotherapy. He will require two more rounds, followed by surgery, then an additional six rounds of chemotherapy, and finally radiation. Despite the gruelling treatment, Odyn remains cheerful. 'He's shining a little bright smile through it all,' his mother said. 'He's a cheeky boy. Through it all, he hasn't stopped his cheekiness.'
Mrs Medley described Odyn as 'a little trooper of a kid' and praised his resilience. 'It breaks my heart to see him go through what no kid should ever have to face. Cancer is a horrible thing,' she added. The fundraiser has grown beyond initial expectations, with local businesses contributing more than $10,000 in prizes for a raffle. 'It's a lot bigger than what we'd envisaged. It grew legs quickly,' Mrs Medley said.
Odyn is well-known in the Minmi community, and his family has deep roots there. 'My son goes to school with Odyn's brother. We'd see Odyn at the football with the other kids,' Mrs Medley said. 'Minmi is a pretty close-knit community. Everyone knows everyone. The family needs a hand, so we'll all jump in and give them a hand.'
Odyn's siblings, Harlan, 10, and Willow, 8, have been supporting him throughout his treatment. 'Our older kids are so excited for the fundraiser,' Mrs Horsch said. 'To see so much love and care put into them during this time absolutely warms our hearts.'
The 'Show Up for Odyn' event will take place from 10am to 3pm at Minmi Hall, featuring live music, stalls, prizes, putt-putt golf, other games, a jumping castle, and a reptile show. Mrs Horsch acknowledged that the day will be emotional but also humbling. 'It will feel a little overwhelming but incredibly humbling,' she said.
