A man is campaigning to give his best friend, who has cerebral palsy, the trip of a lifetime through Europe.
Tom McCarty has started a GoFundMe campaign for Leon Ogilvy who he describes as "the best person I know, who has been a part of my life since we were 11".
Ogilvy resides in Sunnynook, Auckland and lives with cerebral palsy, but McCarty said his condition "has never dampened his spirit and he continues to amaze everyone who meets him with his resilience and positivity".
McCarty, who now lives in London, wants to bring Ogilvy over for an "unforgettable three-week adventure, packed with adventures that celebrate his love for life".
"He has always wanted to take a holiday in Europe and time is running out to make that possible with his condition," he told Newshub.
Their plans include theme park visits, enjoying the city's finest restaurants, experiencing the energy of a live football match and "attending some of the best West-End shows and taking him to all the London attractions".
McCarty also wants to explore London's vibrant pub scene with Ogilvy who "loves a beer".
While McCarty and friends have pooled together some money for the trip, due to Ogilvy's condition extra allowances are required.
"We need to ensure his comfort and accessibility throughout the trip, which includes a business class flight and quality care. The costs for these arrangements, along with accommodations, transportation, and activities, are significant," McCarty wrote on the fundraising page.
Should they manage to raise the NZ$16,000 they are hoping, the money will go towards:
- Caregiver's fees, flights and accommodation
- Upgraded business-class for Ogilvy's comfort due to mobility challenges
- Accommodation for his three-week stay
- Transportation for all planned activities
- A memorable birthday celebration
- Tickets/entry to planned activities
- A Eurostar trip to Paris for Disneyland
McCarty hoped that the fundraiser will show Ogilvy the "incredible kindness of our communities".
The fundraising page said, "all donations will go directly to Leon and his family's bank account. If there is anything left over, we will donate to Leon's charity of choice!"
