Two-year-old Holly was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition, hydranencephaly, when she was still in the womb. The condition means her brain will never develop past that of a 22-week-old foetus and she requires constant care.

But three weeks ago, more than $20,000 was raised for the Kilsyth family when friends, family and local businesses in Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges rallied together to host a Christmas trivia night at the Ringwood Bowls Club.

The money will go towards 'Holly's wheels' - a specially designed wheelchair for Holly and a modified car with wheelchair access for the family.

Mrs Brennan was humbled by the community's kindness.

"Before the trivia night, a pensioner at the Ringwood Bowls Club heard of Holly's plight and handed me five dollars," she said. "She told me she didn't have much money on her but she wanted to make a donation."

Last week the same woman visited the family and handed them a sealed envelope - there was $500 inside.

On another occasion, Mrs Brennan was shopping for the trivia night when a woman overheard her talking about Holly to the shop assistant.

"When I left the shop the woman approached me, put $100 in my hand and walked off before I could even get her name."

More than 250 guests attended the trivia night and many local businesses donated to the cause.

"It has been unbelievable the support we have received from ordinary people who want to help," Mrs Brennan said. "There is so much equipment we want to get for Holly to make her life as good as it can be. We take it day by day. We're just so lucky to have her with us."

This will be the second Christmas for the Brennans as a family, a milestone they weren't sure they would reach. Most babies diagnosed with the condition do not live past 12 months.

Family friend Amy Cimino is organising a children's and babies' market to raise money for Holly next April.

The Huckleberry Market will be held on April 29 at the Croydon Leisure Centre, 11 Civic Square, Croydon.

To make a donation visit

hollyswheels.com.