Sebastian is fighting a fight with cancer – and he’s thankful to all his friends for having his back.

Sebastian McFarlane is 11 years old, he’s in Year 7 at Cromwell College; he’s also a very courageous young man.

Sebastian had a brain stem tumour three years ago – but now it’s back. This is a battle he wants to win, and his friends are helping him do it.

With the help of Cromwell Youth Trust, a group of his friends put on ‘Dance For a Cause’ to raise much-needed funds for Sebastian and his family.

Sebastian and Rhys are both very grateful for all the community’s fundraising efforts.

‘Dance for a Cause’ was a complete success, says Cromwell Youth Trust manager Rhys Smith. Over 80 rangatahi were there to celebrate the brave battle Sebastian McFarlane has been fighting and help raise funds. 

Sebastian was cheered and celebrated by his peers throughout the night as he danced and sang with his friends, enjoying the music, face paint, glowsticks, light show, smoke machine and of course the sweets.

Rhys described it as an extremely heart-warming experience to see.

“Cromwell youth workers dedicated a lot of time and effort to organise and create a night to remember for Sebastian.

“And the night was also supported by DJ Dan with amazing audio and lighting, Remarkable Sweet Shop with sweets, Emma O’Reilly with amazing face painting, The Warehouse Alexandra and staff and senior students from Cromwell College.”

Throughout July, Cromwell Youth Trust has been raising funds for Sebastian and his family to support with fuel costs, groceries and other expenses which create added stress during Sebastian’s weekly chemotherapy visits to Dunedin. 

“The total raised was an incredible amount, just over $1,600,” says Rhys.

The night was successful for everyone.

“Our goal is to support our young people throughout any challenges they experience, and we have an army of community support alongside Sebastian and his family, which we are extremely grateful for.” 

Youth worker Fran Dustin added the support from the business community for the event had ensured there was less expense and more money for Sebastian.

“So, thank you Cromwell.”

Images supplied