PICTURES: Join 6-year-old Sara Higgins for 'sweet' fundraiser, in aid of her rare condition

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Little Sara Higgins, age 6, went viral in November 2023, when her father posted a picture of her (above) standing on the steps of Temple Street Children's Hospital, Dublin, after a major operation holding balloons with the biggest smile on her face. 

Sara has since been through two more major surgeries but is still smiling. She is currently preparing for a bake sale to give back to those who helped her. 

In a sweet initiative - literally and figuratively - a special fundraiser is set to be hosted this Saturday, March 16, at the Marina Market in Cork to support Sara, who has a rare genetic condition.

Sara's journey has seen her undergo three major surgeries in the past 10 weeks alone. Born with Muenke Syndrome, a condition where the skull fuses prematurely in the womb, Sara has faced multiple health challenges, as her brain struggles for space to grow.

Complications from the syndrome also led to hearing loss and vision impairment for the young girl.

Temple Street Children's Hospital became a crucial part of Sara's life, providing exceptional care from her first visit at just 6 weeks of age. The dedicated medical team at the hospital has been instrumental in managing Sara's complex condition, guiding her through numerous surgeries with huge support.

Sara's first major surgery occurred just before she turned 6-months-old, involving a six-hour procedure where metal bars were inserted into her skull, protruding externally. This intricate process was repeated this November, with further surgeries to reposition the bars to the back of her head.

The effect of these surgeries has left Sara with a zigzag-shaped scar from ear to ear.

Despite the hardships, Sara and her family have found strength in the community's support. Over the past two years, bake sales organised by the community have raised an impressive €13,000, highlighting the power of collective goodwill.

Sarah's mother, Diane Higgins, said: "We never want Sara to feel like a victim, and although there have been tough times for us as a family over the past few weeks, and years, the bonding and support we have felt with each other and with our community has been unbelievably positive and in a way we are lucky to have an opportunity to see so much good in people."

This year, organisers aim to set a lofty goal of €7,000 during the Marina Market fundraiser, with hopes of reaching a remarkable total of €20,000 when combined with online contributions.

The funds raised will contribute to Sara's ongoing medical expenses, including three necessary blood transfusions she has undergone to date.

Everyone is encouraged to participate in the fundraiser, either by attending the Marina Market event or contributing online.