A LEETON family which may one day need to use the services of Country Hope has picked up some Christmas cheer as part of the organisation's annual fund-raising efforts.
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Each year Country Hope holds a major raffle, with Leeton's Pike family - Brent, Hope and their three children Kobi, Zarly and Braxton - winning a prize after buying tickets.
While the win meant it was all smiles, Country Hope Leeton co-ordinator Yvonne Murphy said there was a more serious tale to tell.
"Braxton was diagnosed with a moderate to large (ventricular septal defect) at around two weeks of age," Mrs Murphy said.
"He has since been under the specialist care of a paediatrician and cardiologist.
"He was placed on daily diuretics to help with his rapid breathing and, along with the VSD, Braxton has a narrowed ventricular and the aorta doesn't flow a normal course.
"This means he will one day have to have surgery and the family may need the help of Country Hope."
Country Hope is a country-based, family-centred support organisation for children diagnosed with cancer and other life threatening illnesses.
It offers a regional service that ensures our diagnosed children and their families are able to benefit from ongoing practical, financial and emotional support, and have the opportunity to build friendships and bonds with other children, families, carers and medical staff.
Braxton's doctors have been pleased with his progress and his heart hasn't deteriorated any further, but as he grows it doesn't function at 100 per cent.
"It's a wonderful feeling to know that Country Hope is going to be there for us when we do need their help with everything that will come with Braxton's operation," Mrs Pike said.
