Last Saturday Ms Rand and her husband, Tim, held a trivia night fundraiser as a way to say thanks to the groups that supported them through their difficult period.

Mr Rand said Bears of Hope provided the family with support, while Alyssa Woodhouse from Heartfelt took photos of their daughter.

“During this difficult period we received support from Bears of Hope, and Heartfelt took photos of our daughter, memories we will cherish forever,” he said.

“Alyssa Woodhouse was the photographer and she donates her time to help families in our situation.

“We felt we wanted to give something back to these charities that helped us in our time of need.”

Money raised on the night totalled $15,021, with 50 percent to go to Bears of Hope and the other 50 percent to go to Heartfelt.

Mr Rand said it was lovely to see all the support from the community.

“We felt overwhelmed and extremely grateful,” he said.

“It was a nice feeling knowing all these people turned up to show support for our family and help us raise money for these charities.

“It was a fun night, and while speeches were made there were a lot of tears.”

Two hundred and twenty people turned up to the event, but Mr Rand said there would have been more if they could have fit them in.

To go along with the trivia night there were auctions held throughout the night and also a continuous raffle, with prizes being donated by local businesses.

Mr Rand expressed his gratitude to all those involved on the night.

“We would like to thank the Coro Club and Hay Bowling Club for their generous donation as well as Alyssa Woodhouse and Kerrie Cole for being with us on that day,” he said.

“Thank you to all the businesses that donated to our cause. 

“Thank you everyone for turning up to share our night with us.”