Echuca's Rylie Stewart, 17, has been washing cars for three years but this Sunday will be his biggest challenge yet.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
Seventeen-year-old Rylie Stewart has spent years watching his mum Pauline battle MOGAD, a devastating autoimmune condition that has no cure.
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She was diagnosed right before Rylie’s 10th birthday with the disease, which is often compared to multiple sclerosis due to its aggressive impact on the nervous system.
Nearly seven years later, Rylie has decided to take things into his own hands.
This Sunday, May 31, Rylie will put his professional car detailing skills to work, washing vehicles to raise vital funds for MS Australia.
From 10am drivers will be able to head to Echuca College for a discounted car wash where half of the earnings go to Kiss Goodbye to MS, which supports MS Australia’s programs in advancing research into better treatments.
Prices will start from as low as $1 for a simple rinse, to more detailed cleans at $25, $50 or $75.
He said seeing his mum live with MOGAD had been a big driver in organising the event.
“It's a disease that's more common than people think... it has a very high rate over here in Australia and in other western countries, and it mainly affects women,” Rylie said.
“So if you want to get your car washed for a cause ‒ show up.
“The prices are cheap, and the quality is good.”
Rylie Stewart is ready to wash your car for a cause.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
Community support has been overwhelming — what began as a modest $500 target has already tripled to $1500 thanks to generous pre-event donations from Echuca Rotary Club.
Pauline said the event was something her son had been wanting to do for a while and had been working hard towards making the event a reality.
“He's acted as my carer for quite a few years, so he's seen a lot of it first-hand,” she said.
“He knows all the nasty stuff that happens ‒ the bad days as well as the good.”
Pauline said she was immensely proud of her son for putting this event together.
“I'm just so incredibly proud of him and what he's doing and what he's set out to achieve,” she said.
As the event approaches, Rylie admits to feeling nervous, but knowing he's helping families facing similar challenges to his own makes every effort worthwhile.
Whether you need your car cleaned or simply want to show your support, Rylie will be at Echuca College from 10am this Sunday.
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