Reuben and his family on the road to recovery

At the end of 2019, our nephew Reuben became very unwell and was admitted to Westmead Children's Hospital for urgent treatment following a diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. His tiny four-year-old body fought hard through the treatment. Finally, in December 2021, Reuben and his family 'rang the bell' at Ronald McDonald House - signalling the end of the active treatment phase and the beginning of remission.

Unfortunately, this didn't last long. Just after his 7th birthday, on 31st August, 2022, following routine blood monitoring, it was revealed that Reuben had relapsed. Medically, this outcome couldn't be further away from what everyone expected.

Understandably, this has been a massive shock for Reuben's mum and dad, Simon and Erin, as they navigate working full-time, and balancing the needs of caregiving for four older children. Almost overnight, for the second time around, their whole lives have shifted. This has involved letting go of paid work for Erin, and reducing hours for Simon so they can be present for all their kids between home (Central Coast) and hospital.

The demands of Reuben's treatment regimes have meant that over the last 3 years, Simon and Erin's young family has missed many of the moments we all take for granted:

Anyone who knows Simon and Erin knows that they live a life marked by generosity and care for others. We also know they'd never ask for help - which is why we've decided to create this opportunity to share their story. We know that so many of you would love the chance to support them in a practical and meaningful way.

Reuben is continuing his treatment at Westmead Children's Hospital. Still, we're all looking forward to the day when he is able to return home and the family can begin to reclaim some precious family moments they've lost. Specifically, creating some happy memories on holiday together.

This fundraiser will go towards Reuben and his family taking a memorable holiday together whenever his treatment is deemed, by the medical team, to be complete.

In addition to a financial gift, we also invite you to join us in praying for the very best medical outcome for Reuben. Thank you!