SPORTS STARS DIG DEEP FOR TEGAN

15-year-old Tegan Sharp with brothers Mitchell and Nelson.

COMMONWEALTH Games gold medalist Kerryn McCann has thrown her support behind a fundraiser for a Thirroul teenager in desperate need of a lifechanging operation.

15-year-old Tegan Sharp was born with severe cerebral palsy and has been confined to a wheelchair her entire life.

She now faces an uncertain future after doctors told her parents she needed a back operation to improve her quality of life during her teenage years.

The operation and hospitalised recuperation will cost her family $60,000, which is where Kerryn McCann came on board.

The inspiring long distance runner has volunteered to help with a fundraiser being organised in honour of Tegan at Thirroul Bowling Club on February 16 from noon till 4pm.

Kerryn will be joined by former rugby league star Mark Carroll and ironman champ Darren Mercer, who will fly from the Sunshine Coast to take part.

"All three have just said, whatever you need, we're there," said organiser and family friend Keith Cole.

"Everyone has just pulled together, it's been great.

"Now we just need to get people to come to the fundraiser so we can help Tegan and her family."

i98FM radio host Marty Haynes will host the night - another local personality to sign on without question.

"When he heard about Tegan, he said, 'I'll do it". I hadn't even gotten to ask him, he just said he'd do it before I had a chance to ask him - it's just fantastic," said Keith.

Tegan's parents Mark and Narelle were both born and raised in Coledale before moving to Thirroul after they got married.

"We played footy and did surfboats together and now our kids are," said Keith.

"They're a wonderful family who have a lot on their plate - Tegan's care is 24/7 and they only get one weekend of respite care a month, so it's been a long, hard road for Mark and Narelle and the boys."

The fundraiser is being supported by Bulli Printery and Thirroul Bowling Club, who Keith says, 'can't do enough to help'.

What's needed now is the support of the community.

Tickets are $60 a head and include buffet lunch and Carlton refreshments. To book, call Thirroul Bowling, Leagues and Recreation Club on 4267 1148.