Supporter news

Kurtis is grateful for every moment, and for kind Redkite supporters like you.

Today, he’s working full-time as a baker and pastry maker at Coles and has a bright future ahead of him. He also has a wish list of things he wants to do which has been important to him. Understanding that life can change in a heartbeat, he’s said he wants to live the best life he can. Some of the things he’s ticked of his list already are snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, landing on top of an ice glacier and sky diving. But 15 years ago, he faced childhood brain cancer and his family depended on care like yours to get through.

Kurtis’ parents, Debi and Matthew, say it’s a miracle Kurtis is here. At just eight years old, he was rushed into surgery to remove a brain tumour that was shutting down his body.

Debi remembers: “His chance of survival was only 5%. The doctors told us to kiss him goodbye for the last time. We were shattered.”

Against the odds, Kurtis survived his surgery. But he still needed months of intense radiation and chemotherapy to save his life.

The treatment was tough on Kurtis and took a massive toll on his whole family – financially and emotionally. Thankfully, Redkite was there to ease their stress and provide much-needed financial help.

Kurtis remembers that time: “If it wasn’t for Redkite supporting me and my family through my treatment the outcome may have turned out differently. The support allowed my family to be at my side every day which had a huge impact on my treatment and recovery. The days and nights in hospital are long and not something any child should face alone.”

When Kurtis left hospital, Redkite supporters also helped ease his transition home. Our community helped cover the costs of tutoring, so he could catch up on his schooling.

It was a long road to healing for Kurtis and his family. But their experience has made them closer than ever – and thankful there are big-hearted people like you out there.

“I was only young when I went through this and now looking back, I start to really understand the important part Redkite played. Cancer and the treatment still have some side effects, even years later, and at times can throw hurdles. I chose to face them head on knowing I have my family’s support and to this day, Redkite’s support.“