Release a butterfly in May for Layla

The annual Ependymoma Butterfly Release day has been set for eMalahleni and everyone is welcome to join in the day.

It will take place on Saturday, May 7 at Big 5 Guesthouse for making a difference in the lives of so many people fighting this form of cancer. This is the third annual Ependymoma Butterfly release day to be held in South Africa and this year will take part in four cities simultaneously; Johannesburg, Pretoria, eMalahleni and Durban. This event is where awareness of the cancer is brought and to celebrate and acknowledge those fighting the disease.

Anne Vertue’s granddaughter Layla was diagnosed with Ependymoma in 2013 just before her fourth birthday. An Ependymoma is a rare type of primary brain or spinal cord tumor which starts in the central nervous system. This type of cancer can be found in both adults and children but it is more common in children.

Layla’s battle with this cancer and her determination to live life to the fullest in the most miraculous way is what inspired the establishment of a non profit organization called Ependy Angels, which is run by Layla’s mother Sharyn O’Neill and a group of volunteers. Through various events the organization brings awareness to this particular form of childhood cancer and assists other families in a similar situation with emotional support and if necessary financial medical assistance.

The Butterfly Release Day will vary from city to city according to the venue. In eMalahleni, supporters, friends and family could arrive at about 12:30. A short talk about Ependymoma and the research being done by the CERN Foundation in America will take place. After this butterflies will be handed out and released altogether with a prayer for those still fighting the disease and for the families who have lost their children to it. All the butterflies released signify hope for the thousands of children fighting brain and spinal cancer and honours those who have passed on. A beautiful day filled with love, colour and hope.

After the release supporters friends and family could stay and have a light lunch or coffee and cake, which would be for their own expense.

Butterflies will be available for purchase on line before the event. For those people who are unable to attend but would still like to support, butterflies can be purchased and will be released on their behalf by the volunteers.

The O’Neill family looks forward to sharing this event with the eMalahleni community and thank you for your kindness and involvement. Together we can bring awareness, spread love and give hope to the children and families of those fighting Ependymoma.

Should you need more information Anne can be contacted on 082 895 2540 or Sharyn on 079 196 8052.