Give me a break!

Friday 4 November, 2011

Do you remember your last holiday? For cancer patients whose daily routine consists of hospital visits and treatments a break away with loved ones can be the perfect antidote. Unfortunately, this can be financially challenging. Cancer Council's Holiday Break program was established to fill this gap, and allow patients some time away to treasure.

The program co-ordinates free holidays for Victorians with a cancer diagnosis who may otherwise not be able to afford a break away. The short breaks allow patients and their families time to relax, revive and focus on things outside hospital visits and treatment, spending quality time together.

Cancer Council Victoria matches eligible patients and their families with available, donated accommodation.

"We could not offer this program without the generosity of our donors," says Alma Hughes, Program Coordinator. "Most of the donated properties are holiday homes offered by donors during quiet times when the house is not in use. This suits the donors but also works for the families as often they can be flexible with times they can get away."

Nina Caple explains her family's involvement in the program as a donor.

"We experienced the rollercoaster ride of cancer through a young friend of ours who had cancer. The experience of dealing with her diagnosis and journey touched us greatly."

"We wanted to do something to help. Being a part of the Holiday Break Program has enabled us to provide short breaks to families experiencing difficult times, and so far the feedback has been overwhelming."

"Hearing their stories has been a good reminder to our family to keep our daily issues in perspective. It is also fantastic for our two young children to understand the importance of helping others if we are able to. We feel very grateful to be able to provide such lovely people with some time out."

Wayne Petterson and his wife Mandy who has cancer were one of the families assisted by Nina's generosity, enjoying a short break away at her coastal property during the April school holidays.

"It was so great to be offered the opportunity to get away from it all as we had a lot going on. We got out and about, taking the four kids to
visit The Enchanted Maze at Arthur's Seat and simply enjoyed spending some quality time together."

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If you would like to donate a free stay at a property, or find out more, please call Alma on 13 11 20.

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