In honour of 12-year-old Ricky Blume who died in a tragic accident last year, the Logan community has come together to raise over $3500 for the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
The Blume family, who organised the fundraising event, were inspired to give back to the Children’s Hospital who provided support at the Queensland Children’s Hospital during their darkest days following Ricky’s accident.
Ricky was revived at the scene of his accident and battled for three days in hospital before losing his fight for life.
Held at the Colosseum GelBall in Hillcrest, the event saw 100 people gather for a game of gel blasting – which was one of Ricky’s favourite things to do – a raffle and a barbecue.
Ricky’s mum, Kelly Blume said the event was amazing.
“There were smiles, tears and laughter and a great sense of community,” she said.
“There were about 100 people that attended on the day from family and friends to the gel blaster community, some people even came all the way from Townsville and South Australia.”
“I was blown away by how many people showed up.”
Ms Blume said the community support shown on the day means everything to the Blume family.
“The gel blasting community got behind us 12 months ago and once again (for the event),” she said.
“It really shows that they are family, and that they haven’t forgotten.
“Gel blasting can be known as a dangerous sport, but the community behind it is incredible and supportive. Everyone came together on the day and had a great time.”
As well as community members, many local businesses and organisations also showed their support for the Blume family by donating funds, equipment, food, and their time on the day.
“I had an idea but got side-tracked with Christmas, so we only started planning in January,” Ms Blume said.
“We pulled the event off with the support of our sponsors and the community.”
Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice said the Queensland Children’s Hospital treat more than 40,000 children from across Queensland and New South Wales every year.
“Children’s Hospital Foundation plays an important part in supporting the excellent work of Queensland Children’s Hospital and Children’s Health Queensland,” she said.
“All funds raised from the Blume’s incredible efforts will help provide life-saving medical research, vital new equipment and support and entertainment for sick children and their families.
“We’re forever indebted to our community, who continue to surprise us in their generosity and creativity when it comes to fundraising for sick and injured kids.
“Without the support of the community, we simply could not do what we do.”
Ms Blume said she would love the fundraiser to become an annual event.
“We would love to show our support every year to give to back to the Queensland Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital Foundation to help them help more families going through tough times,” she said.
If you want to start your own fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital visit www.childrens.org.au/fundraise
