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29 Sept 2025

'It meant the absolute world to us' Laois town supports events for toddler fighting cancer

Mountmellick turns out to aid little Leon Westman aged 3 and his family

'It meant the absolute world to us' Laois town supports events for toddler fighting cancer

Pictured for the Cyclethon for Leon were Dillon Connolly, Ritchie Westman and Tom Westman. Photos: Denis Byrne

Reporter:

Lynda Kiernan

29 Sept 2025 12:33 PM

Email:

lynda.kiernan@leinsterexpress.ie

A Laois town came out in "wall to wall" support for a big day of fundraising to help a local three year old boy fighting cancer.
While toddler Leon Westman from Mountmellick is undergoing chemotherapy treatment for a Neuroblastoma, the community are rallying around his family.
Last Saturday, September 27, a fundraising group Team Leon, led by his uncle Richie Westman, held a day long cyclethon at SuperValu following by a night time auction, raffle and life music in The Druid Inn.
Local sports clubs took turns on the exercise bikes. 
Darren Strong and Niall Westman on their bikes for Leon. Photo: Denis Byrne
Richie described the support they received, with the final amount yet to be totalled. An online Gofundme account so far has hit over €17,000 also, all to aid the family as they focus on getting Leon well again.
"Dear Mountmellick, where to even start....? A thousand Thank You's wouldn't even scratch the surface... A day and night nothing short of exceptional. The support, and the genuine love for Leon and his family was sensational.
"The weather started awful, but that did not stop people from coming out to support. But when the clouds parted, and the sun came out, this town burst into action as it always does.
"There was no let up. As the light went down on Connolly Street at 8pm, it was only starting in The Druid. Wall to Wall, not a seat to be had.
"Druher providing the music were unbelievable. These young men cancelled another gig to support us. They refused to take a single cent for their time.
Jackie Westman and Noel Westman. Photo: Denis Byrne
"There are an unbelievable amount of business and people we would love to thank, but we would be here until next year trying to tag everybody. We could not have done this without each and every one of yours support. Just know that it meant the absolute world to us, the support we received from all corners of the county and further afield.
"Over the coming days we will be in touch with our raffle winners that were not present on the night. We'll also arrange delivery for our auction items.
"It's the Light that shines, the helps drive away the darkness. Mile Buiochas Mointeach Milic, Team Leon"

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