Family raises awareness for charity that supported them

A Hemel family are sharing their story to help raise funds for charity that supported them through their daughter’s cancer.  

Rick and Anna Austin had their world turned upside down when their daughter Isla was diagnosed with neuroblastoma on her first birthday in September, 2016. 

Rick said: “Everything just changes overnight when you get that diagnosis really. One day things are quite normal and the next, everything is different.”

The Leverstock Green family lent their support to charity CLIC Sargent in a bid to raise vital funds and awareness by encouraging the public to donate £2 to get a Band Against Cancer wristband.

CLIC Sargent fights tirelessly to stop cancer destroying young lives and helps families limit the damage cancer causes beyond their health. 

After months of chemotherapy, Isla underwent a seven hour operation to remove the tumour, followed by a high dose of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. 

Isla is currently receiving treatment in a clinical trial in New York every few months, which the family hopes will prevent the cancer from returning. 

It was during treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Isla’s family had support from a CLIC Sargent social worker who provided practical, emotional and financial support. 

The Austin family became determined to give something back by supporting CLIC Sargent’s World Cancer Day campaign. 

Rick said: “We’re proud to be wearing our Band Against Cancer wristbands and supporting CLIC Sargent this World Cancer Day because they made a huge difference to me and my family at an awful time.”

CLIC Sargent senior fundraising and engagement manager for London and South East, Hannah Lavendar said: “Donating and getting your band against cancer wristbands is a simple way to show your support for CLIC Sargent and families like Isla’s.

“CLIC Sargent can fight for these families in so many ways but with your help, CLIC Sargent can fight for these families by providing practical, emotional and financial support, to help minimise the damage cancer causes beyond their health.”

To find out more or to get your own band against cancer wristband, visit shop.clicsargent.org.uk