THE Romsey community has rallied to help the family of local boy Mathew Stannard by raising more than $35,000 at a fund-raiser for the four-year-old who was diagnosed with two life-threatening diseases.
Mathew's Challenge, a comedy gala and auction fund-raiser, was held at Glen Erin Winery in Romsey on June 19.
As reported in the Telegraph in May, Mathew was diagnosed in January with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and Marfan syndrome - a genetic disorder of the connective tissue that affects the heart, lungs, eyes, skeleton and nervous system.
Organiser Melanie Traynor said the fund-raiser was a huge success.
Hosted by Before The Game comedian Anthony 'Lehmo' Lehman, the night featured a silent auction of items donated by local businesses and appearances by comedians Tom Gleeson and Clare Hooper.
The event was organised by a group of four local women, Melanie Traynor, Nicki Ferraro, Anna Quigley and Mia Fichera, who have become known as Mathew's Angels.
Ms Traynor said the fund-raiser would not have been possible if it wasn't for the kindness and generosity of the local community.
"As a result of this event I have witnessed overwhelming generosity and community spirit. All those who supported this cause, especially Romsey, should be so incredibly proud. I cannot thank everyone enough," she said.
"This was a massive community event. We originally wanted to raise more than $5000 and it just evolved from there."
She said the more than $35,000 raised would go to the Mathew John Stannard Trust to support Mathew's medical costs and future health and wellbeing needs.
Mathew's parent's Kerry and Steve Stannard said they were stunned at the generosity of the Romsey and surrounding communities and sent out a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved.
"To all the people who were involved and attended the evening, we will never forget your kindness. A very special thank you goes out to Melanie, Nicki, Anna and Mia. Without their love, support and tireless efforts this event wouldn't have been possible."