Families with children undergoing treatment for cancer at the John Hunter and Mater hospitals will benefit from a recent fundraising effort organised by the team at Mullane & Lindsay Solicitors.
Harry’s House has received a welcomed donation that will directly support the management and upkeep of the volunteer-run emergency and respite accommodation service at Stockton.
The house, located in Maitland Street, was purchased by David and Samantha Meyn to honour the memory of their seven year old son, Harry, who died following nine months of oncology treatment for brain cancer.
“After Harry’s diagnosis, and during his treatment, our world was turned upside down,” Samantha said.
“We were aware of other families from across the region going through the same trauma, but couldn’t be beside their children during long treatment periods because of accommodation issues.
“We just couldn’t imagine coping with that on top of everything else and knew we needed to help.”
Since opening in 2011 Harry’s House has accommodated up to 15 families a year at no cost. The service provides emergency housing, respite and holiday breaks for families who are either undergoing treatment or who are grieving for a child they have lost to cancer.
Families can also use Harry’s House Mobile Retreat motorhome, as well as access special needs trikes and other recreational equipment.
The charitable foundation receives no government funding, relying on funds raised from four annual events including a golf day, fun run, charity ball, and bike ride, along with the generosity of local businesses and the community.
“We’ve needed to regroup from last year as COVID-19 restrictions really impacted our ability to hold
any events,” Samantha said.
Hearing about the need, Mullane & Lindsay held a children’s party favourites fundraiser at their Hunter Street premises complete with cupcakes, fairy bread and collected donations.
Samantha said receiving such support allows families ‘a home away from home’ during what can be an exceedingly difficult time.
“We just couldn’t do what we do without this kind of backing,” she said.
Mullane & Lindsay Director, Ashleigh John, said her firm was delighted to be supporting such a worthwhile cause.
“Giving back to our community has always been very important to us and the amazing work being done at Harry’s House is invaluable to families,” Ashleigh said.
“Over the years cancer has touched the lives of many of our team in some way, and we are all so happy to be involved in helping to play a small part in delivering this important service.”
IMAGE | Samantha Meyn talking to the Mullane & Lindsay team.
