Photo: Supplied.
FROM RICHIE’S RAINBOW FOUNDATION
Through its innovative iPad scheme, local charity Richie’s Rainbow Foundation is dedicated to bringing joy and comfort to children undergoing cancer treatment. The initiative provides iPads to young oncology patients, offering them a gateway to entertainment, education, and connection during their challenging journeys. The organisation is calling on local businesses to support the scheme to enable more iPads to be distributed to children.
The story of Richie’s Rainbow Foundation began with a little boy named Richie. Diagnosed with cancer at the tender age of seven, Richie faced numerous hospital visits, treatments, and long stays in sterile environments. Despite the pain and fear, Richie remained a beacon of light, always finding ways to smile and spread happiness. His love for technology, particularly iPads, became a source of comfort and distraction during his treatments. Sadly, the battle with cancer was unfair and with outdated treatments, Richie passed away aged nine on the night of Riverfire, but his legacy lives on through the foundation created in his memory.
Recognising the profound impact that iPads had on Richie’s quality of life, the foundation’s founders decided to extend this comfort to other children facing similar battles. The iPad scheme was born out of a simple yet powerful idea: to provide each child in the oncology ward with an iPad of their own. These devices, loaded with games, educational apps, and communication tools, serve as a lifeline, offering a sense of normalcy and joy amid the turmoil of cancer treatment.
Jenessa, a nurse at Brisbane Children’s Hospital, has witnessed first-hand the transformative effect of the iPad scheme. “These iPads are more than just gadgets; they are tools of hope and resilience,” she says. “They help our young patients stay connected with their families and friends, continue their education, and most importantly, find moments of joy and distraction during their toughest days.”
The success of the iPad scheme relies heavily on the support of the local community. Richie’s Rainbow Foundation has already made significant strides, but the demand continues to grow as more children are diagnosed and treated for cancer. This is where local businesses can make a crucial difference. By contributing to the iPad scheme, businesses provide tangible support to these brave children and become part of a larger narrative of compassion and community spirit.
Contributions can be made in various forms, including via monetary donations, fundraising events, or donating iPads directly. More information is available at www.richiesrainbow.org.au.
