Millie’s Night to Shine was held in support of 23-month-old Millie Rose Cross, who was diagnosed

with the disease in January this year.

Her mother Bree McAlpine was forced to give up her job at St Monica’s Primary School and is currently with her daughter in Melbourne while she undergoes treatment.

Fund-raiser organiser Wendy McIntosh said the aim of the event was to help Ms McAlpine and Millie overcome the financial burdens associated with the illness.

She said an auction on the night had raised about $18,000 and she was thankful for all the local businesses and individuals who had donated goods.

‘‘The amount we have raised is just brilliant,’’ Ms McIntosh said.

‘‘We really want to thank everyone who donated goods and services because without them the fund-raiser would not have been possible.’’

Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation and Bendigo Community Health Services

have formed the Millie’s Time to Shine Appeal.

‘‘It means that helping Bree and Millie out is not a one-off thing, but it is something that can be ongoing,’’

Ms McIntosh said.

‘‘As well as helping financially, the Bendigo Community Health Services can help provide support during Millie’s treatment. 

‘‘We really want to thank Leanne Wedlick from the Bendigo Bank Kangaroo Flat Branch — without her help the appeal wouldn’t have been set up.’’

To donate to Millie’s Time to Shine Appeal visit a Bendigo Bank Branch or go to  www.bendigobank.com.au/foundation/millie