More than 300 people rallied together on Saturday to raise much-needed funds for Ardmona's Johnathon Bentancourt.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Having been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in September 2019, the 23-year-old has been given just months left to live.
However, fundraising efforts have begun to raise money for a potentially life saving clinical trial in California. The only problem is the trial costs in excess of USD $150 000.
The action-packed A Day on the Field at Ardmona's Recreation Reserve on Saturday raised a momentous $45 000 to put towards the experimental treatment.
Dozens of musicians headed to the festival-style event while businesses donated generous items, including a trip to Bali, jewellery and rare sporting memorabilia to use as raffle prizes or to be auctioned off.
Johnathon's mother Terri Bentancourt said she was amazed by the generosity of the local community.
“It was an amazing day and we couldn't have done it without the help of so many people,” Terri said.
“It was quite overwhelming for us all,” she said.
Johnathon and Terri's passports have been approved and they are expected to fly out to California in early March.
It's expected the pair will have to stay in California for at least three months - another cost associated with the expensive but essential treatment.
Although the family have found it hard to ask for help, they know opening their hearts is the only way to help find a cure for Johnathon.
Expecting to move in with his partner, attend university and continue his love for cooking and playing the clarinet, Johnathon's young life was last year turned upside down in just a matter of months.
To help give Johnathon the life he deserves, donations are continuing to be accepted to help fund the trial.
To find out more about Johnathon's story or to donate visit bit.ly/2FwFYs3