Keepin er country for kids' cancer charity

Angel Wishes NI grants wishes to kids fighting all cancer related illnesses throughout Northern Ireland and it was set up last year by Gaye Kerr from Moira in memory of her twins Helen and Brian.

“Helen died when she was just three in August 2005 after battling a cancer related condition called HRH which is a rare blood disorder and sadly her brother Brian died from Fanconi’s anaemia, a rare genetic disorder, in December 2012,” said Gaye.

“When children go through chemotherapy their immune systems are so low and they can’t avail of public premises like the cinema or ten pin bowling. They can’t even go into a shop to buy sweets. It’s not just the children who are affected, it is also the families who end up feeling like they are in isolation.

“I started Angel Wishes to try and help put normality back into their lives and to put a smile back on their faces. Our first priority is the children who are in hospital on treatment, so whatever they ask for we try and get it for them.

“When they get out of hospital and are still receiving treatment their immune system is so low so we will arrange for them to go to the cinema and have a private viewing. We also work with Lockdown Events in Belfast who supply movie quality heroes, villains and princesses and when you see the children’s faces it’s so heartwarming. If you check out our facebook page you can see for yourself the difference it makes to these children.

“We couldn’t do this work without fundraising events like the Country Music Dance and Cabaret. We don’t take a penny, 100% of the money raised goes to the children.”

Donna McKavanagh the event organiser explained; “As I am involved in the music buisness I decided to get some of my friends together and get a night organised to raise some funds for Angel Wishes NI.

“Straight away I was inundated by artists who wanted to do a spot for this charity, kindly offering their services free of charge.”

The Country Music Dance and Cabaret is on Monday in the Bannville House Hotel. Doors open at 7pm with Matt Madines Country Music Disco getting underway at 8pm.

Admission is just £10 and every penny will go to help children with cancer related ilnesses from across Northern Ireland.

To find out more visit their Facebook page: Angel Wishes NI.