Paradise Kids

I was introduced to the Illness Support Program offered at Paradise Kids when one of the ‘Volunteer Buddies’ placed a brochure in my son’s school bag. My son Iain was born with a congenital heart disease and his heart was on the right side. My husband and I had waited a long time to have Iain. When we were told Iain had Complex Cyanotic Heart Disease and they didn’t think he would live beyond a few days we were in shock.

The specialists felt that Iain’s condition was inoperable. Further tests showed that Iains’ oxygen levels were low. Iain remained strong and at the tender age of 2 months received his first major surgery and also started being tube fed as he wasn’t able to feed properly.

In 2006 my husband became seriously ill with cancer and sadly passed away in 2006. Being single Mum with an ill child is very difficult. During Iain’s time with the Illness Support Program I was able to receive counselling with Dina. Talking to Dina really helped as I don’t have outside support. I felt like I was living in an empty shell.

Iain’s Illness Support buddy was Theresa and he would wait outside for her arrival. Iain loved the meditation and asked me constantly “Where’s the box Theresa gave me”? Iain has just turned 6 years old and I continue to stay strong for him. Support Program I was able to receive counselling with Dina. Talking to Dina really helped as I don’t have outside support. I felt like I was living in an empty shell.

Sheila Matthews, Mother