Dundalk crèches rally in superhero fundraiser for young boy undergoing cancer treatment
Crèches unite with dress-up days and fundraisers for eight-year-old Henrijs Rozentals
Capes, masks and plenty of colour filled crèches across Dundalk last week, as children and staff dressed up as superheroes in support of eight-year-old Henrijs Rozentals, who is currently undergoing blood cancer treatment.
The special dress-up days formed part of a wider community fundraising effort led by local childcare providers, all coming together to support the young boy and his family during an incredibly difficult time.
Henrijs, a former student of MiniMinds Preschool, is currently undergoing treatment in hospital, where he is expected to remain for some time.
The diagnosis has placed immense emotional and financial strain on his family, prompting friends and members of the local childcare community to take action.
Niamh Hoey of MiniMinds explained how the effort quickly spread. “Henrijs is one of our past students and remains very close to all of our hearts,” she said. “Once word spread, the support from the childcare community was incredible.”
That support has taken many forms. Local childcare providers have organised a series of creative fundraising events, including superhero dress-up days, bake sales, and raffles.
“Lisa from Holy Family and Claddagh Treasures kindly got in touch to ask if they could support the fundraiser by holding a Superhero Dress-Up Day, which was amazing,” said Niamh.
“I have often worked alongside Lisa since she took over management of these services.
“Then Mandy, from the Redeemer Crèche who has worked with Henrijs’ mum, contacted me to ask if she could also take part by organising a bake sale, Superhero Dress-Up Day and raffle.
“Finally, Dara from ABC got in touch to say they would also love to contribute. I was truly blown away by the kindness and generosity shown by everyone who wanted to help.
"This is what early years services do best, supporting children, parents, and families when they need it most.”
Most of the participating services held their fundraising events on Friday with ABC holding theirs this week.
The campaign has also gained traction online, where a GoFundMe page set up by family friend Natalija has already raised more than €4,600 through the support of over 100 donors far surpassing its initial €1,000 target.
In the fundraiser description, Henrijs’ situation is described as turning “life upside down” for the family. His mother, described as “devoted” and “hardworking,” has had to step away from work to remain by his side during treatment.
The funds raised will go towards easing the financial burden, allowing the family to focus fully on Henrijs’ recovery.
Niamh praised the strength of community ties in Dundalk, particularly within the early years sector.
“Our sector is built on care, community, and connection,” she said. “It has been wonderful to see so many services come together to support one little boy and his family,” she said.
The GoFundMe page can be found at: www.gofundme.com/f/help-8yearold-henrijs-fight-blood-cancer