Georgina Miller of Eastbourne has nothing but praise for the support she and her family received from Child Cancer Foundation when their daughter was diagnosed and receiving cancer treatment.
By Chrys Ayley
?They were just there for us at every step of the journey.? More than 150 children are diagnosed with cancer each year and the Child Cancer Foundation are there to support families when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Georgina Miller of Eastbourne has nothing but praise for the support she and her family received from Child Cancer Foundation when their daughter was diagnosed and receiving cancer treatment. Ms Miller and her partner Mike Durkin heard the news that their daughter Endeavour, 3, had been diagnosed with cancer in 2002. It happened quickly with a phone call in the morning saying their daughter had to get to hospital that afternoon. ?The CCF turnout was fantastic,? she said. A family support worker turned up on the day of diagnosis while they were still reeling from the shock. Support was available immediately in terms of practical stuff like phone cards and tissues, she said. In the first six months Endeavour received intensive treatment then spent a lot of time at Wellington hospital and coming and going. Throughout that time the CCF did all they could ?to smooth things over? with petrol and food vouchers, regular support in person and by phone. ?They became like a second family to us and it was a huge source of strength for us.? Endeavour died in April 2003 and Ms Miller and Mr Durkin have stayed involved with the foundation as they wanted to give something back. They volunteer their time helping out at events, attend diners for the bereaved and Mr Durkin is on the board of the Central District CCF. Ms Miller will be helping with this year?s collection and said it was a symbolic time as Endeavour died on the collection day. The experience has made them appreciate the small things in life, she said. The Child Cancer Foundation Appeal Week is March23-29.
