Merveen’s Story

Merveen

We as a family discovered the kindness of Can Assist back in 1993 when Alice our daughter, was diagnosed with terminal Leukaemia at age three. We lived in the country and Can Assist helped us with travel expenses and airfares. This help eased the financial pressure as we had four children, the youngest being just nine months old, all living on one wage.  The organisation came to my aid a second time in June 2017, when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I was offered a huge support network for which I will always be grateful. Can Assist supplied the accommodation and some travel costs once again, taking the pressure off us financially.

I work in the medical field so was shocked when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer but quickly realised I couldn’t change it and it was not going to beat me. I could never say “why me” because if it wasn’t me it could be someone I love dearly and that wouldn’t be fair at all. I honestly never thought I would have to face Oncology and Clinics again after Alice’s diagnosis. But here I am.

Being a citrus farmer based in Griffith, I had to take a leave of absence from work for the duration of my treatment and recovery, so having accommodation expenses and some travel costs met was a godsend. My family were comforted with the fact they knew I was safe and living in a treatment free zone. A place where I could cry, laugh or sing if I wanted to, and be able to chat to others receiving the same treatment. It was very therapeutic to sit around the breakfast or dinner table and hear how everyone was faring, we became a family that began as strangers.

Alice

The offer of assistance from Can Assist was a huge relief. Without it, I would have had to stay in a motel with all the associated costs and the loneliness that comes with that environment. The alternative was a 450km daily round trip and an enormous financial burden.

Our family and my sisters and their families have been involved with fundraising for Can Assist in both Cootamundra and Wagga Wagga for years, since they helped us with Alice’s expenses. Never did I think I would have to ask Can Assist for help again. But we are very grateful for their assistance.

Thank you Can Assist.