For Sean and Megan Doudle, decking out their Raymond Terrace home with Christmas lights and decorations is so worth it for all the joy it brings. Login or signup to continue reading Known affectionately as the Griswald's of Raymond Terrace, the pair have been decorating their home for the last few years and Megan said each year the display gets bigger. "We started out with fairy lights and now we keep on adding to the collection," she said.
Not only do they decorate their house for the community, but they also take it as an opportunity to raise funds for a good cause. "For the past two years, we have been raising money for pink for Piper, in honour of Piper who passed away from DIPG, which is a rare form of brain cancer," Megan said. Piper was a five-year-old girl whose dad was a member of the same baseball club as Sean.
"We wanted to help in any way we could," Sean said. This year, Sean and Megan are raising money for Pollanda Farm Rescue, which Megan said a friend of hers suggested the rescue for this year's fundraiser. "They help all animals that get surrendered and aren't wanted, including little Wanda who is needing her leg amputated," she said.
One of the many decorations on their front lawn is a Santa chair, made by the Raymond Terrace Men's Shed, which Sean proudly sits in dressed as Santa, posing for photos with local children. "Seeing the kids eyes light up is why we do it," Sean said. "We do it because we love to see people happy," Megan added.
This will be Sean's third year putting on the Santa suit, with Megan helping Santa to hand out candy canes and slap wristbands to any one walking or driving past. "Once it's school holidays, we'll be out here every night," Megan said. For more information and their address, follow Megan and Sean Griswald's Xmas Lights Spectacular on Facebook.
To make a donation to Pollanda Farm Rescue, scan the QR code on Megan and Sean's letterbox, drop your spare change into the tin or make a donation online, via: https://www.gofundme.com/f/wanda-dogs-leg-amputation .
Laura Rumbel is a journalist who has always called Maitland home. She has been with the Maitland Mercury since 2022, and is passionate about all areas of local news. Laura Rumbel is a journalist who has always called Maitland home.
She has been with the Maitland Mercury since 2022, and is passionate about all areas of local news. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update.
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Christmas lights for a good cause: Sean and Megan spread festive cheer
Raymond Terrace Christmas lights house lights up for charity.