A fundraiser for Azenje Smith will add to the family festivities of Cup Match weekend.

The West End Sail Boat Club is to host the day out, which has been organised by family friend Kaya Robinson.

Laurie-ann Stovell and Jamal Smith are currently trying to get Azenje admitted to the University of California San Diego's School of Medicine for treatment for a rare genetic disorder.

The 18-month-old boy has Mitochondrial Disease, which attacks the brain cells, nerves, muscles and organs in the body. Although there are different forms of the disease, it is characterised by cells being unable to burn off food and oxygen, and so generate energy.

Mr. Robinson, 30, is the father of a two-year-old boy, Ngozi, and said he could relate to what Azenje's parents were going through. "Knowing what they went through with their first son, as a parent it's hard dealing with this. I just decided to do a little something for them," he said. "Losing a child is not something any of us would want to experience."

Miss Stovell and Mr. Smith say Azenje's last hope now lies with the UCSD Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center. But although BF&M Insurance will cover most of his costs, Miss Stovell and Mr. Smith will still have to pay for his medication and their living expenses while they are in San Diego.

Mr. Robinson, a truck driver from Pembroke, has organised next Sunday's fundraiser to help with Azenje's medical expenses.

From 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., people can enjoy a codfish and potato breakfast, with a fish fry cook-up from 2 p.m., plus music from djFellon, 80min Assassin and special guests. So far, the community has donated more than $5,000 to help save Azenje's life. If you can assist the family in any way, please contact them at: AzenjeSmithMedicalFund@hotmail.com

The Fundraiser for Azenje takes place at the West End Sail Boat Club on Sunday, August 3, from 8 a.m. Admission is $5.