After just three weeks of tin-rattling, more than $3000 has been raised for the Daniel Ralli appeal.

Daniel, a 14-year-old cerebral palsy sufferer, has outgrown the car his mother Trudy drives, putting his health and safety at risk.

With doctors saying Daniel will probably die a “young man”, his family is endeavouring to make the rest of his life as enjoyable as possible and recently appealed for the public’s help.

Sunraysia Disability Resource Centre manager Joy Clarke said Red Cliffs man John Burfitt had been leading the way with fundraising.

“We’ve got about $3500 so far,” she said.

“John Burfitt has just been wonderful, he’s raised a heap.

“He’s been busy fundraising down the mall and people just come over and give him money because they know he only looks after good causes.”

The Sunraysia Daily team recently watched as Daniel’s mother Ms Ralli – who weighs a mere 40-something kilograms – struggled to push the teenager and his wheelchair up a ramp and into her Nissan Nomad.

With a big heave-ho, the petite Red Cliffs woman, completed the daily chore, strapped the chair into the van and ensured Daniel was as comfortable as possible.

Seated in the wheelchair, Daniel and his equipment have outgrown the van, with his head touching the roof putting him at risk of snapping his neck.

With a new, bigger wheelchair on the way, the van’s cramped conditions are about to get worse.

Jumping on board for Daniel’s fundraising appeal, the Sunraysia Disability Resource Centre recently hosted a Thumbs up for Daniel day last week, featuring a fundraising sausage sizzle.

“A lot of people saw the report in the Sunraysia Daily and got in touch with us after that,” Ms Clarke said.

“The Red Cliffs Lions Club saw the story and sent in $1000.

“One car place has also offered the use of an old taxi on a temporary basis until the family gets something more suitable.

“And we plan to go and sit up at Centro for a few days so we’ll keep going with it.

“I’m just thrilled that in such a short time we’ve been able to raise a significant amount of money.”

People wishing to help Daniel and his family can donate money by calling the Sunraysia Disability Resource Centre on 5023 2580.

This story appeared in Saturday’s Sunraysia Daily 04/09/2010.