Arlo Monteith’s fourth birthday was certainly one to remember.
He combined birthday celebrations with a very successful fundraiser for research into the rare neurodegenerative disease Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis (HSP).
“Arlo had such a wonderful day,” his mum, Mal, said.
“He enjoyed all the customers and children coming in and wishing him a happy birthday, some bringing presents, he had a ball and didn’t move from the shop all day,” she said.
His parents Erik and Mal decided to put the fundraising day on last Saturday at their business, Funkey Monkey, to help fund research into HSP.
Every coffee sold came with a free cupcake and they were really happy with how the day went with all proceeds going to the cause.
Between auctions, raffles and cash donations they raised $23,875.45.
“The cash donation box has at least another$400 in it today, so we are looking at raising over $24,000,” Mal told the Post on Monday.
“A big thanks to the community for their generosity, it has been amazing,” she said.
Donations can still be made online or in store at Funkey Monkey.

IMAGE: Arlo Monteith, pictured digging into a box full of goodies last Saturday, celebrated his fourth birthday at his parents’ Funkey Monkey café. The birthday celebrations doubled as a fundraiser for Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis (HSP), which Arlo carries. (PS)