Big hearted Laois town's outpouring of support to three year old boy with cancer

A Laois community is rallying around the family of a little three year old boy who is facing the battle of his life.

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

While little Leon braves chemotherapy in Our Lady's Children's hospital in Crumlin, the Mountmellick community is digging deep under the superheroic banner of Team Leon, to ensure the family at least don't have to worry about household bills. 

Within four days of an online fundraiser launch, it has reached almost €10,000, such is the local regard for the family. 

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. 

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

"From the beginning we have just taken this day by day, and will continue to do so going forward. 

"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.

A group of local friends, including Shauna's Laois employer at DS Sports Darren Strong, have formed a committee to raise money, launching the fundraiser with more items planned.  It includes Darren, Richie Westman, Olivia and Dillon Payne, Martina Dunne, Sarah Dooley and Angel and Lisa Tormey.

Darren spoke to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"Shauna has worked with me for four years as a graphic designer. Leon would come into the office, he's such a fun little boy, he loves getting up to mischief and he's always smiling. They're just a really nice young family, I feel fierce sorry for them. They are very private, they don't put photos of their kids on social media. They didn't really want us to do a public fundraiser but we convinced them that all people will want to help them, they have enough worries.

"Leon has just had a full week of chemotherapy so they are up and down to Dublin every day. I hope we can raise as much as we can and that's one less worry.

"Shauna has asked me to say thanks on behalf of the family, they are very overwhelmed with the messages of support. They thank everyone who has been there for them in the last few weeks," Darren said.

The committee plans to hold a 24 hour Cyclethon at SuperValu Mountmellick, on Saturday, September 27, the workplace of Leon's granddad, butcher Noel Westman. 

An auction night will follow, with details to be worked out.

"We welcome businesses to donate items, already Finline Furniture has donated a chair worth €1,000," Darren said.

Team Leon's Gofundme fundraiser describes Leon as "a bright, fun-loving little boy who is just 3 and a half years old. He has a smile that lights up a room the minute he walks in".

"Noel and Shauna both live and work locally. Shauna is also actively involved volunteering her artistic skills with Mountmellick Community Arts Centre, and the Christmas Tree Committee.

"Leon is under the incredible care of Crumlin Children’s Hospital, facing a long and difficult journey ahead.

"This fight will take a huge emotional and physical toll on Leon, his family, and everyone who loves him. On top of that, the financial strain of travel, overnight stays, and lost income will soon add up. Leon’s family will focus all of their time and effort into supporting Leon through this.

"That’s where Team Leon comes in. Our goal is to support Shauna, Noel, Jodie, and Leon in every way possible, so they can focus fully on Leon’s care – not bills.

"Mountmellick has continually shown just why it is known as the “Small Town with the Big Heart”, and already the love shown to the Westman and Blake families has been incredible. It's this kindness and compassion that Mountmellick is known for, that makes even the hard days that little bit easier.

"Our small town has already seen far too many young people battle cancer, and now it’s our Leon. His parents are focusing all their energy on helping him through treatment, and we want to surround them with as much love and support as possible.

"Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. It takes a village to raise a child. But it takes a community to save one," they say.

Read also: Celebrations in Mountmellick as Laois pharmacy reaches massive milestone

"From the bottom of our hearts, Thank you for standing with Leon and his family on this journey. With gratitude,

Darren Strong, Olivia & Dillon Payne, Martina Dunne, Sarah Dooley, Angel & Lisa Tormey, Richie Westman".

Anybody willing to get involved is invited to get in touch.