Redkite Ambassador Jodie Haydon opens the doors of Kirribilli House for Annual Christmas Appeal, embracing families facing childhood cancer

Redkite Ambassador Jodie Haydon hosted families who have directly benefited from Redkite’s support to mark the launch of Redkite’s annual Christmas Appeal. This significant event aims to spotlight the myriad challenges of families facing childhood cancer during the holiday season, emphasising the indispensable role played by Redkite’s Christmas Appeal in providing crucial support.

Jodie Haydon stood in solidarity with families whose lives have been touched by the organisation’s support, underscoring the profound impact of Redkite. This year’s launch holds particular significance as it magnifies the collective strength and resilience within the Redkite community.

Over the next three years, an estimated 3,000 Australian children will be diagnosed with cancer. The repercussions of this diagnosis will reverberate for a lifetime, affecting mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers, with an estimated 85% of these families finding themselves grappling with unmet non-medical needs — spanning emotional, financial, and practical challenges.

In 2023 alone, Redkite is expected to provide crucial support to over 2,000 families and nearly 3,000 individuals. This commitment underscores Redkite’s mission to address the comprehensive needs of the families affected.

Monique Keighery, Redkite CEO, emphasised that “The Redkite Christmas Appeal is a lifeline for families facing the immense challenges of childhood cancer.  Despite the holiday season typically being celebrated as a joyous family occasion, it can also be a particularly challenging time for those families dealing with bereavement, those with newly diagnosed children and/or those with children currently undergoing treatment.” 

Jodie Haydon, Redkite Ambassador, echoes this sentiment, saying, “I have witnessed first-hand how difficult this time of year can be for these families. It’s really tough. Through the generosity of donors, we can make a meaningful difference to the lives of these families this holiday season.”

This holiday season, Redkite aims to raise $500,000 in funding to enhance their services for families facing childhood cancer. These vital funds play a crucial role in supporting Redkite’s comprehensive range of services, encompassing emotional support and counselling, financial assistance, and bereavement support—providing invaluable assistance during the most challenging times in a family’s life.

Christine Tylee, a resilient parent facing the challenges of childhood cancer, expressed, “Supporting Redkite’s Christmas Appeal is an honour for me. Having personally navigated the hardships of this journey, I understand the profound difficulty families face during the holiday season. The Christmas Appeal is crucial in raising much-needed funds to provide support and solace to those enduring the emotional and financial strains of childhood cancer.”

To contribute to Redkite’s Christmas Appeal and make a meaningful impact, please visit Redkite’s Donation Page and make a difference in the lives of families facing childhood cancer this holiday season.