Albie’s Allies are a fundraising force to be reckoned with, creating a vibrant legacy for its incredibly cheeky and cheerful namesake Albie Moore. Before Albie was even one week old, he had been intubated, undergone bowel surgery and had the first of three open-heart surgeries at The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH). Despite the ongoing challenges of his conditions since then, the five-year-old continues to wear a smile on his face.

In their latest fundraising initiative, Albie’s mum Emma aims to 100 kilometers from Geelong to the RCH on Friday 19 March with the goal of reaching $10,000 in donations. Emma founded Albie’s Allies to raise funds and awareness for the Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction Service (CPRS) at the RCH, which treats children that are born with lifelong bowel conditions. Usually, Albie’s Allies would hold large community fundraising events to show support for the RCH, Barwon Health and Kids Plus Foundation, however with the impact of COVID-19, Emma had to get creative with her campaign.

“Conveniently, we live 98 kilometers from the RCH, and with a few rest stops, I’m confident I’ll reach my 100 kilometer goal at the RCH. I am so proud to be able to support the CPRS at the RCH on behalf of all the kids and their families,”

“The Larwill has been somewhat of a second home for us over the past 5 years, so it is a fitting place to end the trek.” Explained Emma.

Albie’s Allies is also a proud sponsor of a sculpture as part of Me and UooUoo: The RCH150 Anniversary Art Trail. Their chosen sculpture is UooUoo, the original design created by artist Alexander Knox for the art trail, and is located in the lobby of Larwill Studio at the RCH.

This sculpture holds particular significance to the Moore family, as Albie has an affinity to the colourful ‘Creature’ sculpture in the main foyer of the hospital which was also designed by Alexander Knox, having spent many years playing underneath it between appointments.

“We are passionate about supporting the art trail as it’s a way to celebrate 150 years of amazing care for Victoria’s sickest children and allows us to shine a light on the amazing surgeons, nurses and allied health professionals who are working to create a better future for children born with serious colorectal conditions,” Emma added.

Update: Albie’s Allies walk smashed its goal and raised $17,632!