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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, May 9, 2013 | 16 For more news, visit www.oakvillebeaver.com Fund helps pay for children's treatment continued from p.9 start to feel quite ill," said Murray. "You really have to manage this disease on a day-to-day basis." With his frequent struggles, Robbie appreciates every good day and doesn't take it for granted, his mother said, noting children with an IBD stay optimistic despite their health. "All of the things that we take for granted when we're feeling healthy, these kids are blessed to be able to do. They are tremendously grateful to have those moments," said Murray. "If you looked at Robbie three years ago and then looked at him today, his quality of life is far superior." SickKids nurse practitioner Karen Frost said the money raised by Robbie's Rainbow goes to the hospital's IBD program to cover expensive medications such as anti-TNF therapy and antibiotics, which can cost $3,000-$6,000 per dose. "(Robbie's Rainbow) has addressed the issues of funding coverage for our IBD population, with 100 per cent of its proceeds directly targeting IBD patients," said Frost. "It is because of its success that we have been able to (make) a positive difference in the lives of many IBD patients and families." Late last year, Robbie's Rainbow was given charitable status from the federal government and is the only children's charity in Canada dedicated to pediatric IBD funding for treatments for children, said Murray. "This is a community effort (where) everybody comes together for the good of these kids to make the biggest impact they can," said Murray. "We're tremendously grateful for the friendship and support everyone has lent us." The Hope Floats gala will be held from 6:30 p.m.­1 a.m. at the OE Conference Centre located at 2245 Speers Rd. Tickets cost $35 each and can be purchased online or in person at InStyle Nails and Boutique, Royal LePage Real Estate on Lakeshore Road, Southside Cottage Grill or Pretty In Pink Spa Studio. For tickets or more information, visit www.robbiesrainbow.ca. Custom kitchens, furniture, vanities and more