Dubbo schoolgirl Isobel Humphreys knows first-hand the impact cancer has on a sufferer and their family and now she is raising awareness to let others know that they are not alone in their journey and that support is available.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Isobel’s father was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in April 2014 and sadly he lost his battle in August that year.
Isobel has made it her mission to ensure people within the Dubbo community are aware of and receive the specialised support of CanTeen this National Bandanna Day on Friday, October 28.
National Bandanna Day is CanTeen’s largest fundraiser.
Every year 23,000 young people (63 a day) have to deal with the challenge of cancer.
But every dollar raised will help CanTeen provide both practical and emotional support for young people who are either suffering from cancer or know of someone who is.
Isobel is the youngest sibling in her family and at 16 years of age, has been able to access CanTeen and the services it provides.
“The main thing for me has been connecting with people who really understand what it’s like,” Isobel said.
“I’ve made friends with people who I would never have crossed paths with if it wasn’t for CanTeen.
“CanTeen might be seen as a sad or negative thing (because it’s associated with cancer), but for me it’s only been a positive thing.”
Isobel said it was important to get the word out there to the Dubbo community of the work that CanTeen provides, so that they too may be able to access its services.
“Cancer statistics are increasing and some young people aren’t getting the support they need,” she said.
“I often get people coming up to me who previously didn’t know CanTeen was something they could access.”
Since her father was diagnosed in 2014, Isobel and her fellow school community at St John’s College have raised much needed funds for CanTeen by holding a Bandanna Day.
Isobel said every donation helps.
To purchase a bandanna you can head to Big W, Strandbags and Athlete’s Foot or you can donate at www.canteen.org.au/donate/support-bandanna-day/