Nate was airlifted to Sydney where he spent four weeks in hospital and his mother, Kelly Lawson, said the support they received was unbelievable. 

“It was so overwhelming,” Ms Lawson said.

“Words cannot describe how amazing everyone was to go out of their way and help us.

“Whether they rang or sent cards or visited us.” 

Two year six students, upon learning Nate Lawson was ill, submitted a request to Sacred Heart’s principal to organise a fundraiser for the family. 

Sarah Pembleton, one of the teachers, said Nate’s class ‘FaceTimed’ him as well.

“It was nice for the kids to see Nate and see that he was OK,” she said. 

“I think that’s why it was important to do the fundraiser as well so they felt like they could help.” 

Nate said it helped him feel better as well to be able to talk to his friends. 

On the last day of last term, the school had a fundraising dress-up day to assist his family. Named ‘Nate’s Day’ students dressed up as their favourite superhero. 

“We raised almost $500,” Ms Pembleton said. 

“From a school that has 280 kids is amazing, it’s a really supportive community here.” 

The Lawsons decided to donate the money to Ronald McDonald House, who gave them a place to stay while in Sydney. 

“We were there for three of the four weeks,” Mrs Lawson said. 

“Without Ronald McDonald House, we would have had a massive financial strain and we were so happy and so lucky there was space for us. 

“It meant we had room for our daughter when she visited so it enabled our family to stay together.” 

Having a place to eat, shower and rest with the added support of the volunteers took a load off their mind, Mrs Lawson said. 

“We could focus on being together,” she said. 

Stephanie Murphy, house manager of the Wagga Ronald McDonald House, said the money would be put to good use. 

“We raise all our own money,” she said.

“To receive this amount is magnificent especially from a little school.”