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    GIVING BACK: Horsham mother Sarah Lee is collecting toys and gifts for patients receiving cancer treament. Ms Lee’s son Braxton Williams has been undergoing cancer treatment at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital.Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Inspiring response to Koala Kids Toy Drive

By DYLAN DE JONG

The impact of a cancer diagnosis on a Horsham boy has inspired his mother to support a cause to donate toys to children in need this Christmas. 

Horsham mother Sarah Lee has been overwhelmed with support from Wimmera residents who have donated toys in support of a Koala Kids Toy Drive for children undergoing cancer treatment.  

Ms Lee was keen to support the cause after seeing the effect on her six-year-old son Braxton Williams, who has been battling cancer for nearly two years. 



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Braxton was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January last year at just five years of age and is still undergoing treatment. 

Ms Lee shared a social media post to back the toy drive and has since gained support from more than 70 people and a Horsham business. 

“I’m honestly blown away with the response I’ve had with this,” she said. 

“This was something that is really close to my heart given Braxton spent a lot of time at the children’s hospital last year.

“When I heard they weren’t able to decorate the hospital like they normally would, I got quite emotional and I just really wanted to make this toy drive really big.” 

Croc’s Playcentre Hoppers Crossing has joined with KoalaKids and is the collection point for toy donations. 

Ms Lee said due to the quantity of items she had received she would need help to transport the toys to Melbourne. 

“I’ll be going down on December 13 and 14 and will be dropping off a boot load of toys,” she said. 

“If there is anyone else looking to get on board, we’re happy to take donations. 

“But if there was anyone who could donate a truck so we can transport the toys that would be great as well.” 

Ms Lee said her family’s efforts were a product of wanting to give back after Wimmera businesses and residents helped raise nearly $50,000 for Braxton’s cancer treatment late last year. 

“This is just my way of giving  back because we received so much support last year and I know what it’s like being in that situation where you need support from other people,” she said. 

“Now that we’re in a better situation this year, I just want to help those who are in that time of need.”

Ms Lee said all items needed to be branded and in packaging due to the health risks associated with COVID-19 and cater for all ages from newborns up to teens.

“Children can be in hospital for quite long periods of time, so something just to break the day up for them would be nice,” she said.

Ms Lee said people could donate until December 18. 

The entire December 2, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!