THE Christmas theme of giving to others is alive and well in the Far North, as a local family discovered this week.
Every day for Jodie and Brett Graham and their children Cameron, 13, and Taylah, 11, is a tough one, as they deal with the severe health conditions suffered by Mr Graham.
As his mobility is restricted by his health conditions , it means everyday family activities simply do not happen.
Michael Aw The Good Guys this week gave the family a food hamper, presents for the kids, and a $200 Coles voucher, as part of their “Secret Santa” this Christmas.
Renowned philanthropist Mr Aw said it was great to be able to help a Cairns family in need, particularly at this time of year.
“When we saw the Graham family was looking for a medical device that was out of our ability to source, we still felt compelled to help them out, it is Christmas after all. We donated a couple of presents for the kids which we hope will bring a huge smile to their faces, as well as their parents, and a Coles voucher to help out with their Christmas food shopping this season.”
Mr Aw's donation came about through the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation fundraising and marketing manager Glenys Duncombe, who was contacted asking if she knew of a family in need at this challenging time of year.
She reached out to Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service community health nurse Margie Beavan, whose thoughts immediately flew to the Grahams.
“Because of Brett's health conditions, he can't get out of the house very much as he needs a portable oxygen concentrator, which are very expensive items to buy,” Mrs Beavan said.
Ms Duncombe said she viewed Mr Aw and his team as “Santa Cairns” for their donation and said it was fantastic to see so much Christmas spirit in our local community. “To receive gifts like that makes such a difference to that family's lives so it's really special to see people caring for others,” Ms Duncombe said.
PHOTO: Michael Aw The Good Guys marketing manager Tyrel Collins, FNQHF fundraising and marketing manager Glenys Duncombe, Taylah Graham, community health nurse Margie Bevan, Jodie Graham and Cameron Graham.
