An enterprising Auckland boy with a brain tumour has raised enough funds to go on a dream trip and more – after selling his toys in a garage sale.
Nine-year-old Hone Hillman put his old toys for sale to fund a family trip to Christchurch, where his uncle, aunt and baby cousin lives.
His dad Sam Samuelu said Hone had been asking to hold a garage sale for the last four weeks.
“It’s been hard for me to reach out for help,” he said, becoming emotional.
Six months ago, Samuelu received the news no parent wants to hear.
“They found his liver was enlarged. They did some deeper digging and found that he had a brain tumour that was enlarging his liver,” he told 1News.
Hone was diagnosed with a rare cell disorder and is receiving chemotherapy. He’s so unwell, he’s unable to attend school.
“It’s hard for him because he really loves school,” Samuelu said.
But today was a day of joy as dozens of Aucklanders poured in to help, donating drinks, clothes, and plenty of koha.
Word of his fundraising efforts spread and by midday today, Hone had received hundreds of donations.
“I heard he’s a bit of a league fan and I work with Cook Islands rugby league. I’m the physios there, so I just thought I’d bring some of the stuff I had and one of the Test jerseys that the boys gave me,” one man said.
Another kind Aucklander touched by his story was Bruce McDowell, who called Hone “a lovely little kid”.
“I lost my wife this year and I just wish him all the best,” he said through tears.
The family said Air New Zealand has also been in touch to offer them a free trip to anywhere Hone wants to go.
“As a father, can’t really ask for much more for your kids,” Samuelu said as he wiped away tears.