Brain Tumour Research supporters donned black tie and sparkles at the weekend, at an event raising more than £20,000 in memory of Wing Commander Kieran O’Sullivan.
Kieran died from a brain tumour in November 2018, aged just 44. One year after her devastating loss, Kieran’s wife Beth Wright organised ‘Boogie at the Biscuit’ at the Biscuit Factory in Newcastle Upon Tyne. More than 270 party-goers enjoyed a fun-filled ABBA night, with entertainment from top tribute band Waterloo - The Best of ABBA, from James Baker Productions.
Beth said: “I met Kieran two years after he was diagnosed with this awful disease and he told me then that he wouldn’t grow old. At the time, I mistakenly assumed there would be advancements in treatment, meaning he would far outlive his original, stark prognosis. Sadly, with just 1% of national spend on cancer research being allocated to brain tumours, progression has been too slow and, in the end, Kieran ran out of treatment options.”
Determined to raise as much money as possible to help find a cure, Beth secured impressive auction prizes, ranging from a VIP Red Arrows experience day to a meal for eight cooked by locally-renowned chef Terry Laybourne. Also up for grabs were 54 raffle prizes, with donations including a huge hamper from Fenwick, a watch from Berry’s Jewellers and a £300 voucher from The Big Optician. The event was also generously sponsored by law firm Ward Hadaway and printers Edward Thompson.
Community fundraising manager for the north of England, Matthew Price, said: “Kieran’s story is devastating and reminds us that we cannot allow this situation to continue. We’re extremely grateful to Beth for organising a fantastic evening of entertainment. She’s raised an incredible amount and we really value her support and the generosity of those who attended the event.”
Plans are already underway to hold Boogie at the Biscuit in 2020. To be added to the mailing list, please email boogieatthebiscuit@yahoo.com.
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