Mum Kelly Montgomery was initially planning to keep her son Ryder's first birthday a small affair but after the community turned out in support, Sunday afternoon at the Lake Illawarra Hotel on NSW's south coast was anything but.
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With donations of time and materials from more than half a dozen local businesses, parents Kelly and Alan were able to give their son the best party they could have imagined.
After a routine check up a few weeks ago, doctors told the Montgomerys this birthday may be Ryder's last.
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An MRI scan revealed that Ryder had a rare tumour on his brain stem. Since then, the family has been living at Ronald McDonald House at Sydney Childrens' Hospital, Randwick as Ryder undergoes surgery.
Doctors have told the family there is a 10 to 15 per cent chance of success.
This weekend, however, the family was able to return to Windang on NSW's south coast to celebrate Ryder's first birthday with family and friends.
After putting out the word, there had been an overwhelming response from local businesses. Filling out the Lake Illawarra Hotel were balloons, cakes and a DJ, plus lollies and snacks - all donated.
Ms Montgomery said the support had been unbelievable.
"It means a lot because Ryder is going through a tough time, so we wanted him to have a party while he was fairly well before he starts treatment," she said.
To cap off the party, the local fire brigade showed up for the children in attendance to explore the fire truck and wear fireman's hats.
In addition to family and friends, the Montgomery's GP and Ryder's teachers from preschool turned out in support. Some of the businesses that donated in support included:
- Cakes from Cre8acake
- Invites from Moments to Remember
- DJ Ignite Dance Party
- Photography by Heather & Twine
- Treats from The Lolly & Scoop Shop
- Cupcakes from Deliciousleigh Cakes
- Venue by Lake Illawarra Hotel
- Balloons from RJ's Party and Variety Store
Mr Montgomery said the efforts were truly appreciated.
"I couldn't even tell you how I'm feeling because I really don't know at this stage, but it touches your heart to see what everybody is willing to go out of their way to do," he said.
After the party winds down, Ryder will return to Sydney to begin chemotherapy on Tuesday, so having the chance to be home together at the weekend was special, Ms Montgomery said.
"He'll be in hospital pretty much most of the time and it's going to be a while until we're all home again, so the last three days at home have been amazing," she said.
"He's got a hard road ahead."
