CHALLENGE (www.challenge.org.au)

Challenge is Victoria’s major provider of support services for children living with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders. It supports not only the patient but also their brothers, sisters and parents. Offering a variety of support services for members up to the age of 18, Challenge prides itself on its “focus on fun”.

To help pass the time of hospital stays and divert patients’ and parents’ attention away from the distress of treatment, Challenge provides a variety of in-hospital services. These include art and craft activities, cooking, an extensive electronic entertainment library, computer and internet services as well as surprise ward visits by celebrities and sports stars. Challenge also provides more than 15 different camps and numerous outings for children and their families as well as home help, relaxation services and financial support.

More than 100 young people and their families use Challenge’s support services every week. A further 2,400 young people attend Challenge camps and excursions every year. In total, more than 6,000 children and young people living with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders come into contact with the charity each year.