“Having the Cancer Society Lodge can be the difference in your recovery.” – Al
When Al was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic syndrome, a precursor to leukaemia, his life and his wife Kathryn’s life changed overnight. Suddenly, they were hundreds of kilometres from home, facing months of treatment.
Kathryn remembers arriving at the Lodge vividly. She had grabbed the essentials from their home, not knowing when she would be back next.
“We were incredibly grateful to get to stay at the Cancer Society Lodge because I went straight to the Lodge, and Al was admitted to the hospital immediately. It was one thing we didn’t have to worry about. And the staff, they were just so supportive and understanding.” – Kathryn
For eight months, the Lodge became their home. Being close to the hospital eased the stress, and financial help with free accommodation at the Lodge and petrol vouchers lightened the load.
“It was probably the most important part of it being able to just focus on Al, on his recovery.” – Kathryn
For Al, the care and connection were vital to recovery.
“Having the Cancer Society Lodge there, it can be the difference in your recovery.”
But right now, more families like Al and Kathryn’s are beginning their own cancer journeys. Every day, 77 New Zealanders are diagnosed with cancer. Each of them needs support, care, and a safe place to stay close to treatment.
Your donation today can help provide:
· A welcoming home at our Lions Lodge
· Free transport to treatment so no one misses vital care
· Compassionate nursing and emotional support for patients and families
· Ground-breaking cancer research bringing hope for the future
“Thank you for paying it forward, really and growing this place to what it is.” – Kathryn
Please make your donation today so families like Al and Kathryn’s can find the strength, comfort, and care they need.
