Peter Holmes said his daughter, a student at Baan Maireab school in Kathu, had a swollen neck before Christmas but it was initially thought the problem was swollen glands.
When medicine didn’t work, Mr Holmes took Pauline to Phuket International Hospital where tests were done to find out the cause.
Five biopsies have since been done and last week it was confirmed Pauline has cancer.
Mr Holmes, a solo parent, is taking Pauline to Bangkok next week for an operation to remove the cancer growth, with the surgery estimated to cost around B200,000 – money the family don’t have.
Pauline will have the surgery at Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital, and to help raise money for the surgery and ongoing care (the family do not have medical insurance) friends have organised a fundraising event.
“I want to thank everyone,” Mr Holmes said.
“I’m a man of few words usually. It’s a bit of a surprise, but I’m very grateful.”
The fundraiser will be held at the Caddy Shack bar and restaurant in Kathu, located on the Kathu Market Road near the entrance to Loch Palm Golf Course.
The event will start at 8pm on Thursday, May 16, and feature live music, a raffle and charity auctions. Prizes include two nights accommodation at the Q Signature resort on Koh Samui and a set of golf clubs.
Tickets are B500 per person, which includes a barbecue buffet and entry into the prize draw – 25 per cent of drink profits will also be donated.
If anyone has anything they would like to donate for the auction please contact Keith on 087 993 8737.