AFTER receiving a liver transplant at the end of last year, courageous young Wycheproof boy Zeke Harrison now has a new lease on life and the focus has turned to giving back to those who have helped him.
Diagnosed with Maple Syrup Urine Disease just a short time after he was born, Zeke Harrison has spent much of his three years in and out of hospital.
But just before Christmas last year, Zeke’s parents received a call that would change their lives forever.
A short time after, Zeke underwent a 12-hour transplant operation, giving him a new liver and a new lease on life.
After a successful fundraiser last year, Zeke’s father Corey Harrison and his partner Laura Bish will hold another Zeke’s Fundraiser, raising money for Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital.
Mr Harrison said his son had shown a lot of improvement since the surgery.
“He is going really well, he just had the last tube removed from his stomach last Tuesday and that was no drama,” he said.
“Touch wood — we haven’t had any backwards steps since [the transplant].
“He can eat whatever he wants now, he is just a different kid.”
More than $20,000 was raised at last year’s event, and Mr Harrison said they were hoping for a bit more this year.
Kicking off at noon this Saturday, April 5, there will be vendor stalls selling a range of goods and kids entertainment on offer throughout the afternoon.
The night’s entertainment begins at 6pm, with live bands including Mat and Adam Dynon, and an auction taking place over the evening.
“[The organising is] going well, everything is looking like it is on track, we are just finalising everything,” Mr Harrison said.
The event will be held at the Wycheproof Racecourse. Entry will be $10 for adults, children under 18 are free.
For more information on Zeke’s story head to zekesfundraiser.org.au
