The people of Issaquah raised almost $10,000 for family of Holly Connor.
About 100 people attended the benefit concert at Issaquah’s Village Theatre, on Monday, Feb. 23, which featured local musicians and performers.
Katie and Dan Connor are trying to raise the $75,000 that will be needed to cure their four-year-old daughter, Holly, of the near-blindness she has suffered since birth after being diagnosed with Septo Optic Dysplasia and Panhypopituitarism, the characteristics of which include visual impairments, hormone deficiencies and autistic behaviors.
With no treatment options available in the United States, the Connor family last year discovered a facility in Asia which has developed a stem cell treatment that is restoring sight to children with SOD.
Having raised $44,000 prior to last night, the success of last night’s event has enabled the family to book their trip to Thailand with the confidence that they are close to their goal.
An anonymous donor agreed to match every dollar raised, and so last night actually raised $19,000 for the Connors.
This morning, Tuesday, Katie Connor was still stunned by the generosity of the Issaquah community.
“The other events we have held have typically raised about $2,000, so this was amazing,” she said.
“Because of the generosity of all those people, we have been able to book our flights to Thailand – we are confident now that it’s going to happen.”
As well as cash contributions, money was also raised through raffles for box seats at a Mariners game, tickets to musical Hello Dolly, and cinema packages at the Majestic Bay Theatre, all donated by the generous owners of Elltaes Theatres.
Vin Du Lac winery in Lake Chelan also donated several bottles of wine, which were also popular raffle prizes.
“We have to thank all the actors, crew, volunteers, and Village Theatre staff that contributed to the event,” Connor said.
“Special thanks to Matt Wolfe, Natalie Moe and Julie Coyle for organizing this event.”
“I want to single out Matt Wolfe and Arthur Allen for their performances – Matt wrote the song “Let the Curtain Rise” which brought everyone to tears, and his words will be forever remembered in our hearts.
“Arthur Allen was the last to perform – he talked about Dan and I and sang the closing song.
“He was able to tell personal stories with humor, and what he said will never be forgotten.
“I want to thank the community and everyone who helped and donated, people who have never even met Holly donated their time and money.
“It was a night of endless acts of kindness.”
