Smith/Sargeant family deck the halls for a second year to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis WA

A McKail family are lighting up their home for a worthy cause this Christmas, decking out their front garden in bright lights to raise money for a charity close to their hearts. For the second year in a row, the Smith and Sargeant family have put on their festive lights display in an effort to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis WA — a charity that has helped their 11-year-old daughter Ivy-Jane Smith since she was born with the genetic disorder. Mother Zoe Sargeant said the family took the reins last year when they found out Albany’s much-loved Mueller Street display wasn’t going ahead. “Since the Stevensons on Mueller Street can’t do it any longer, people were wanting to know where they can go, where they can donate to CFWA as they’ve become passionate about it,” she said. “We had a small but really good turnout last year with lots of people, so we’re hoping to be able to match that.” Affecting the lungs and digestion with an overproduction of sticky mucus, cystic fibrosis is one of the most common genetic illnesses, with one in 25 people carrying the gene for the disorder. Ms Sargeant said although Ivy-Jane had been “really well” since she was about four years old, the charity had been “huge” in continuing to help with her ongoing care and exercise requirements. “CFWA is the main charity for cystic fibrosis in the State, and they are just brilliant,” she said. “As well as care and support, they provide funds for helping drive up to Perth for treatments, purchase extra sports equipment, presents.” This year’s display is bigger and better than last year’s thanks to the addition of lights from the Mueller Street display. The family will stand outside the home with donation buckets and handing out lollies from December 20 until Christmas — an act Ms Sargeant said Ivy-Jane took “in her stride”. “She loves it,” she said. “She’s been trying to get us out there since early December. “We just want to get out the message that every little bit helps — even if it’s the loose change coming out of the bottom of your purse, it all adds up.” CFWA head of fundraising Jessica Hollinshead said grassroots fundraisers like the Smith and Sargeant family were “vital” in supporting people with cystic fibrosis. “Community fundraising helps CFWA offer a range of services including in-home care, mental health support and community outreach,” she said. Visitors can visit the lights and donate to the fundraiser from 7.15pm-8.15pm from December 20-24 at Radiata Drive, McKail. Have you decorated your home with Christmas lights? Send your photos to greatsouthern@wanews.com.au for the chance to be featured in the Albany Advertiser’s showcase of the Great Southern’s most creative and brightest displays.

Smith/Sargeant family deck the halls for a second year to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis WA

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