One Droylsden family has planned a special fundraising event on Saturday 2 October for a beloved charity.

The action-packed fundraiser, happening at the Fairfield Arms pub, is in aid of the Downs Syndrome Association (DSA).  

Organisers of the event, the Carmody family, received help and information from the charity when their son, Lucas, was diagnosed with Down’s syndrome shortly after his birth. They still receive educational guidance and information from the DSA as Lucas progresses through mainstream school in Droylsden.  

The family had planned to raise money during an event in 2020, on the date of the association’s 50th anniversary, but this was postponed by the pandemic.  

Lucas’ Mum, Sarah Carmody, added: “During the pandemic Covid-19 had a massive effect on the Down’s syndrome community. Children and Adults who have Down’s syndrome can be especially vulnerable to the virus.  

“Demand for the DSA’s services increased massively with people looking for advice and support to the extent that calls to their helpline were up by 40%. The DSA’s regular income streams were also halved due to the restrictions and income fell from both individuals and organisations - especially with the cancellation of fund-raising events.  

“During the pandemic the DSA has worked really hard to provide regular up to date information via emails to families and communities regarding Covid 19.” 

Starting at 2pm, the fundraiser includes an afternoon of children’s entertainment and games, before music and dancing begins at 6pm. They’ll also be a raffle and the chance to bid on memorabilia at an auction hosted by Jon’s Charity Raffles.   

Sarah is still looking for donations for the raffle, anyone that could supply prizes can get in touch on the Facebook page here https://facebook.com/events/s/lucas-downright-special-charity/1490683587773887/?ti=wa 

Fans of Billy Bradshaw can also meet their creator, Buzz Hawkins, who is dropping in to do a live set at the event.  

Money can be gifted to the Down’s Syndrome Association through Lucas’ JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/Lucas-CarmodyDSA50 

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