GoFundMe bid for brain tumour student picks up steam
Published:Thursday | June 11, 2020 | 12:00 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
The past students’ association of Anchovy High School in St James has established a GoFundMe account for Kalylia Pinnock, the 15-year-old student facing a J$242,000 monthly bill to get medical help for her Stage Two brain tumour.
The GoFundMe account, which was launched on May 30, came in the aftermath of The Gleaner highlighting her plight. So far, US$6,400 of the US$15,000 target has been realised from 150 donors.
In appealing for support for Kaylia, the page stated that she was in dire need of help to confront the life-threatening medical condition that has kept her out of school since the start of the year and has plunged her 42-year-old sweet-vending mother, Velma Latchman, into a state of despair.
“It is on this merit that the Anchovy [High School] alumni and the past students’ association has stepped in to assist in the process of raising funds for Kaylia’s medication,” the page stated.
“I am truly appreciative of all those who have contributed to Kaylia’s GoFundMe medical expenses campaign,” said Ishba Higgins, second vice-president of the past students’ association, who also serves as the school’s dean of discipline.
“I am certain Kaylia and her family will benefit greatly.”
Nyron Cameron, president of the Anchovy High School Alumni, says the response of the school community and well-wishers was heartwarming.
“We recognise the tremendous support from persons in various countries who continue to support Kaylia in her time of great need,” said Cameron.