John Needs Pembro committee profoundly grateful for public’s response

By COLIN BARTLEY

A CAMPAIGN to raise funds to pay for a life-changing cancer drug for Kilkenny man John Holmes is astounded by the generosity of Kilkenny people.

The John Needs Pembro campaign has raised almost €125,000 to date to help John Holmes pay for 30 infusions of Pembrolizumab, each of which costs €5,11.50 – a total of over €150,000, including 23% VAT.

Just eight months after launching the campaign, the committee admits it is overwhelmed by the public’s response.

“We are profoundly grateful to report that we are further ahead of our fundraising goals than we ever thought possible. As of Tuesday, 23rd July,  we have raised almost €125,000.”

The John Needs Pembro Committee is now taking a pre-planned break from all events.

“We will be back with further updates and new events in September. We would like to put on record our deep gratitude to everyone who has hosted a fundraiser (too numerous to itemise), to the local businesses who have donated money and spot prizes, and to the local media for embracing and publicising John’s story.

“We are especially grateful to all the wonderful people of Kilkenny, Wexford and beyond for their open-hearted generosity and moral support. The solidarity and affection shown, truly mean the world to John, Edel his family and everyone involved in the committee.”