Not all superheroes wear capes
Not all superheroes wear capes
Superhero Week: 23 July – 29 July
Walking through the corridors of Bear Cottage are superheroes who aren’t defined by wearing capes but instead by the extraordinary amount of bravery and courage they use to face some of life’s biggest battles.
One of those superheroes is 20-month-old Portia, who always has a smile on her face despite the challenges she’s faced. Four days before her first birthday, Portia went into cardiac arrest and spent time in a coma and on life support. She has since been diagnosed with a brain injury, cerebral palsy and her sight has been affected. Portia and her family first came to Bear Cottage as a step down from hospital and Megan, Portia’s Mum, believes it prepared them for life at home.
This July, Portia’s family are calling on the community to get their capes on for Superhero Week to help families like theirs. Held from 23 July – 29 July, Superhero Week is Bear Cottage’s largest annual fundraising appeal, raising essential funds for NSW’s only children’s hospice and the hundreds of brave children and families who rely on this invaluable service for respite and end-of-life care each year.
“Bear Cottage is an amazing place and brings so much joy to so many children and families. Having the support of Bear Cottage gives parents and families a home away from home and a place to have a much-needed rest and break,” Megan, Portia’s mum said.
Not only is there support for Portia and Megan, but also for Paige, Portia’s sister who spends hours playing with the therapy dogs and doing craft with the Child Life Therapist.
“Bear Cottage is there to provide a real sanctuary for patients and families who are dealing with the most heartbreaking circumstances. Bear Cottage provides not only the best medical care, but also gives families time together to create special memories,” Nurse Manager, Narelle Martin, said.
This year, Superhero Week is aiming to raise $250,000 to help ensure Bear Cottage can continue providing support, respite and end of life care to sick children and their families during their time of need.
To support Superhero Week, make a donation by visiting superheroweek.com.