Blind singer hosts concert to help save Amy’s sight
Amy’s mother, Natasjha, confirmed the funds are sitting at R17 200.
The cold weather on Friday night didn’t deter family, friends and community members from showing their support for Amy Botha (19).Blind singer Vernon Barnard (24) hosted a concert at Hamba Nawe/Kom Bietjie Hier for Botha who faces permanently losing her eyesight due to a rare brain disease.
All the ticket sales were donated to Amy’s cause in an effort to help her raise the R250 000 needed for the shunt operation she desperately needs to keep her from losing her sight permanently.
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“Everyone’s support means the world to me and without the support and help I have received, I don’t think I would be where I am now,” said Amy.
“Vernon has also been very supportive and I appreciate it a lot.”
Vernon’s performance was enjoyed and appreciated by all at the concert who were not shy to shake off the winter blues on the dance floor.
“It is a great thing to come together and help support Amy; she is a great person and whatever amount people can contribute will mean a lot to her. Many people are struggling out there and we need to join hands and support each other,” said Vernon.
“Don’t underestimate the money you donate, because that R150 or R100 or whatever amount you donate can help put a smile on someone’s face. Good people deserve a chance and at times it is up to a community to recognise that and help. We can gain so much more by just giving something.”
In line with June being youth month, Vernon shared his advice to the young people including those fighting rare diseases.
“Stay strong and love yourself. If you can go through all the struggles and still have a smile on your face, then you are a hero and people will gain more just by looking at you and what you can accomplish.
“Sometimes, the world can be a very negative place and we just need that smile a bit more and help inspire each other.“Don’t carry the load alone, there is always someone willing to help and listen. It is important to know that you have everything you need to succeed inside of you.”
Amy’s mother, Natasjha, on Monday said the fund was sitting at R17 200 before Friday’s concert.
“We still have a long way to go but we are praying that we will get there soon. Thank you to our family, friends, community members and everyone who has shown their love and support. Thank you to Pick n Pay at Elgin Mall who sponsored the food at the concert. We will host more fund-raising events.”
Amy concluded with gratitude: “Thank you to everyone who is supporting me, financially and emotionally, it is humbling. Thank you to the owners of Hamba Nawe/Kom Bietjie Hier who donated the venue for the concert. A big thank you to Vernon who understands my situation and his messages and care also mean a lot to me.”
To donate to Amy’s cause, readers can visit her fund-raising page: goo.gl/RMRWwh, or use the following banking details:
Child Medi Organisation FNB,
Cheque Acc no: 626 325 810 56
Branch code: 250655
Swift code: firnzajj
Ref: Amy
