Help support Karen’s chemo

Hello!

Our lovely Mum Karen has recently been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting her immune system. It has been a long process to get to the point of diagnosis; various invasive investigations and biopsies since the discovery of an abnormal lymph node in February. She has commenced chemotherapy this week, which is expected to last 6 months.

As you may be aware, Karen retired from Balcombe Grammar School at the end of last year after 15 years of dedicated service. She was the longest serving employee and one of the school’s founding members. Her commitment to the nurturing and development of all the children she has taught and guided through the years was unmatched. Karen’s hard working nature, love of learning and devotion to the well-being of the BGS community shone.

Had this diagnosis come just a few months earlier, Karen would be receiving full sick pay to support her through this time. It is heartbreaking to imagine that she should be embracing her well-deserved retirement and a new, exciting chapter of her life - travelling, enjoying time with friends and family, finding new passions and hobbies. Unfortunately, her first few months of retirement have so far been spent undergoing invasive tests, coming to terms with starting chemotherapy and worrying about what the future holds.

While Karen is surrounded by people to love and support her though treatment, the cost of cancer is not insignificant. Research estimates the cost of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in Australia over a lifetime to be $87,500.

Filling the first prescription alone cost the best part of $100, as a family we will be incurring costs of travel between Australia and the UK. Health insurance does not cover any of the cost of items such as hair wigs - something I’m sure you’d agree is essential in maintaining some sense of normality while battling the side effects of chemotherapy.

I’m sure you’ll appreciate this has been a devastating blow to Karen’s retirement plans. Any amount you may be able to offer to help reduce the associated financial burden and support Karen through possibly the worst start to her new life, would be so appreciated.

Thank you!

Lucy & Rory