A BUNCRANA woman has started cancer treatment after a major community fundraiser raised over $180,000 to fund life-saving healthcare in America.

Vivienne Lynch McDaid from Buncrana is currently undergoing chemotherapy in Boston after a fundraiser raised $182,815 to pay for the treatment.

Vinienne was recently diagnosed with cancer and local doctors said there was not much they could do for her, but doctors in Boston at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute told her ‘there is hope.’

However, the estimated cost received from MGH for the treatment is $148,666.30 which needed to be paid up front before Vivienne could receive her treatment.

A family friend, Victoria Naughton started a Go Fund Me page and in one week, an incredible $150,000 was raised from generous donations by local people.

The fundraiser has now exceeded the target of $150,000 and is now sitting at $182,815 and Vivienne’s first treatment was scheduled for last weekend but delays meant her first session took place on Tuesday.

An update on the GoFundMe page explained that $150,000 was the estimate and final costs could be more and added that organisers ‘would like to relieve Vivienne and her family from any of the financial stress that necessary treatment could cost.’

Organiser Victoria Naughton said, “A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you for generously donating and sharing this fundraiser for Vivienne.

“You have made it a success.

Please know that Vivienne’s first treatment is scheduled for Saturday, August 14.

“Please keep Vivienne in your thoughts and prayers as she begins what is sure to be a challenging time,” said Victoria.

To donate to the fundraiser, visit www.gofundme.com/f/cancer-treatment-for-vivienne-lynch-mcdaid