‘We can’t thank Wigan enough’: Community transforms family home for brain tumour mum
A Wigan family has been overwhelmed by support from the local community after launching a fundraising campaign to help a mum battling an aggressive brain tumour.
Crissi McMahon, who previously made her home in Winstanley with husband Dave before the couple spent time living in Guernsey, has returned to Wigan to be closer to family and her medical team at The Christie Hospital in Manchester.
Crissi was diagnosed with a Grade 4 glioblastoma brain tumour in 2016 and has spent almost 10 years fighting the disease. Her family are now hoping to raise enough money to fund private dendritic cell immunotherapy, which they hope could help extend her life.
A family fun day will take place at St Aidan’s Social Club in Winstanley on Friday, August 8, from 1pm, with all proceeds going towards Crissi’s treatment.
The event will feature live entertainment from Wigan indie band Blue Sky Day, singer Chloe Louise and children’s entertainer Kids DJ Lisa, alongside bouncy castles, face painting, football activities, food vendors and stalls.
The Wigan community has also rallied around the family to help them settle back into their home.
Harrower Services has volunteered to clear the garden, DTK Joinery is replacing flooring, JS.TilingNW is helping with the kitchen and local decorator Danny Wrigley is redecorating bedrooms. Members of the public have also donated furniture and household appliances.
Crissi’s sister, Lynda Audsley, said: “What felt like an impossible task is now coming together and the house is starting to feel like a home.
“The support we’ve received from local businesses, volunteers and complete strangers has been incredible. It really shows that the community spirit in Wigan is alive and well, and we can’t thank everyone enough.”
Lynda is encouraging residents to come along to the fundraising day on August 8 and are also appealing for raffle prize donations, business sponsors and volunteers to help support the event.
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