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KIM'S STORY

Meet Kim - CanCare Volunteer

As a CanCare Volunteer Navigator, Kim knew she would be able to make a positive difference in the lives of others. What she hadn’t anticipated, was the significant impact it would soon have on her own.
After living in China for many years with her husband Frank and adoptive daughter Mia, Kim returned home to Australia to be closer to friends and family, including her other three adult children. As a stay-at-home mum having lived what she gratefully describes as a blessed life, Kim made the decision to use her spare time to give back to her local community.

It was then that she stumbled across an online post about CanCare Navigation.

Following her training, Kim met her first patient and now dear friend, Robyn in June of last year. At 80 years of age, Robyn is living with a form of bone marrow cancer, a diagnosis that requires weekly scans, tests and blood transfusions. As her mobility and breathing are often affected, accomplishing even the smallest of tasks has become increasingly difficult.

Kim’s support has ranged from grocery shopping and transport assistance to coffee dates and long chats on the phone. The pair even celebrated their newly formed friendship at Robyn’s recent 80th birthday party!

CanCare Navigator - Kim

“It’s actually not a big ask what I do, I just want to encourage more people to think about volunteering their time and if nothing else, just have a little bit more empathy towards others. There will come a day when we all need some help, and I like to think someone would show me the same kindness I have shown to others”.

“All of Robyn’s sons have my number and I keep them up to date when they can’t be with her themselves, I can really see how much Robyn trusts me and that is a very special feeling. Something nobody can take away”. 

In December of last year Kim made the decision to support a second patient and in doing so was introduced to Jane. At just 63, Jane was diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer and is undergoing aggressive chemotherapy. Without immediate family to help, Jane needed a little extra support, for which Kim has generously stepped up. 

We can’t all volunteer, but we can help in other ways. Your gift will make a real difference to those in need.

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