Huge prizes to be won in Laois Team Leon auction and raffle

Amazing prizes have been donated to a Laois auction and a raffle to aid the family of a little three year old boy who is fighting cancer.

Little Leon Westman from Mountmellick was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma cancer last August, to the deep shock of parents Shauna and Noel and his big sister Jodie.

As little Leon continues chemotherapy in Our Lady's Children's hospital in Crumlin, his relatives and friends under the banner of Team Leon are working to ensure the family at least don't have to worry about household bills. 

Their online fundraiser launch, has passed €16,000 within a week of launch. 

This Saturday, September 27 they will hold a 12 hour cyclethon outside SuperValu Mountmellick, from 8am to 8pm, with donations welcome. The cyclists include a host of local athletes.

"We are delighted to say we have members representing The Rock Gaa, Mountmellick Gaa, Mountmellick Football Club, O'Moores Camogie Club, Sarsfields Ladies Club and Emo GAA," Richie Westman from Team Leon says.

It will be followed on Saturday night with a benefit night in the Druid Inn from 9pm. 

Raffle tickets are on sale all week in the Druid Inn, and all day Saturday in SuperValu, €2 each or three for €5. 

The many raffle prizes include two tickets to Forest Fest 2026, a dining experience for two in Ballyfin Demesne, Spa experience and afternoon tea for two in The Heritage Killenard, a night's B&B in the County Arms Hotel, Birr, afternoon tea with prosecco in the Killeshin hotel, Priority Fitness gym memberships and many more local business sponsored prizes.

The top item up for auction is a Queen Anne armchair worth €1,000 from Finline Furniture in Emo, and other items for auction include a Leinster shirt signed by the men's URC winning team, and a Newcastle Utd jersey signed by Stephen Carr.

Bids can be made prior to auction, email teamleon2025@gmail.com The raffle will be drawn following the auction.

Leon's dad Noel had made an emotional statement to reveal their trauma and thank everyone for support.

"On Thursday 14th of August we brought our little man Leon to Paedriatics in Portlaoise Hospital. 4 days later on August 18th, after bloods, xrays, scans and an ultrasound we found out the worst of news, no parents ever want to hear, Leon had an abdominal mass, called Neuroblastoma.

"The very next day he was sent in an ambulance to Crumlin Children's Hospital. From the very first day of being admitted to St Michael's Ward then St John's Ward, Leon has received the best of care, and come this Friday will start on his third round of chemotherapy treatment.

"We can't thank the doctors and nurses enough already, for the care they have given to Leon, and the compassion and understanding to us at this difficult time. 

Read more about the community's efforts to help the Westman family here. 

"We are overwhelmed with messages, from family and friends. The cards, candles, holy waters and oils are greatly appreciated. 

"Leon is the bravest boy going through this and we would just ask everyone to keep him in their thoughts, and keep the positive well wishes and prayers going. Thank you, Noel, Shauna, Jodie and Leon," he said.

Check out the Team Leon online fundraiser here.