The Gisborne community is rallying behind a family of eight who have the fight of their lives ahead of them.
Sunbury mother of six Renee Leach was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour in February.
Surgeons removed half the tumor earlier this year, and the surgery has left Mrs Leach with memory loss, language difficulties and vision problems.
No further surgery is possible because of the risk of further permanent damage to her brain.
Mrs Leach must now have daily chemo and radiotherapy treatments.
The family has had its share of devastating health issues over the past decade and a half.
Mrs Leach’s husband, Mark, required a heart transplant in 2002 and, within a month of his surgery, the couple welcomed 13-week premature triplets.
Mr Leach said their church community at Gisborne Church of Christ had rallied around them during their times of greatest need.
The church will host a trivia night on Friday (July 29) to raise money for urgent medical expenses, as well as for the children’s schooling and extracurricular activities.
Triplets Monique, Joshua and Stephanie, 13, and their siblings, Aimee, 11, Eden, 7 and Zoe, 4, all take part in ballet, horse-riding and swimming.
“The support that we’ve received has been overwhelming,” Mr Leach said.
“Renee’s diagnosis has been a big shock to the whole family.
“But we just take things one day at a time.
“Our kids are amazing. They’re all doing remarkably, especially the older ones. They all do their part.”
Church minister Paul Crothers is urging the community to dig deep to help the Leachs.
“The response from the community has been wonderful,” he said.
“Only so much can be raised from selling tickets, so we are seeking donations of prizes to be raffled or auctioned on the night.
“And gift vouchers would be greatly appreciated.”
An online crowdfunding page has also been set up to assist their efforts.
To donate to the Gisborne church’s GoFundme campaign, go online at https://www.gofundme.com/reneebrain
For information about the trivia night, email paulc.gcofc@outlook.com
