Having a child diagnosed with cancer is one of the most devastating situations a parent can face. The impact of treatment and an uncertain future, can be life-changing for every member of the family. That’s where charities like Challenge step in – making sure families don’t walk their cancer journey alone.
Fred Rossi, a Financial Planner at Evolve Financial Services in Ringwood, Victoria, knows how tirelessly staff at Challenge work to support children with cancer, and their families. He has a long association with Angela Scaffidi, Vice Chairwoman of Challenge Board – and that’s why he nominated Challenge for a Milford Community Connection Program grant of $4,000.
“It provides me with a sense of pride,” he says. “It is very pleasing to find a way to support our clients and their charities. With my long-term relationship with Angela, I know how much happiness this brought her – given that she has tirelessly worked helping others.”
The grant will be used to fund much-needed Scaffidi Foundation Scholarships. “These scholarships are coordinated by Challenge and delivered once a year for educational support for children living with cancer,” says Angela Scaffidi. “They are used for tutoring, educational equipment, fees and extracurricular activities which help children who are often in hospital for weeks and months. Each scholarship is tailored to the needs of the young person and can range from $500 to $3,000 in value.”
The scholarships will be awarded in November 2024. “Last year we received a record number of applications, and we expect this year will be similar,” says Angela. “Thank you to Milford for your generosity – it is much appreciated.”
About Challenge
Challenge is Victoria’s longest running children’s cancer charity. Following a child’s diagnosis, life changes significantly. Families begin a journey of uncharted territory, where they learn to adapt to a “new normal” of life with cancer. Adjusting to these changes is difficult and takes its toll on every member of the family – patient, parent, and sibling(s). This is where Challenge steps in.
Challenge aims to manage the impact of a cancer diagnosis by addressing the emotional, social, and practical needs of young people and their families. Whether it is help at home or a weekend away, Challenge tailors their services to meet the requirements of each individual within the family unit. The broad range of services for young people includes in-hospital support, camps, art and music therapy, tickets to events, playgroup, scholarships and movie days.
For more information visit challenge.org.au
Photo: A previous Scaffidi Foundation Scholarship recipient enjoys some equine therapy, paid for by the scholarship.
