Help care for Rani during cancer treatment

Product Description

Broome, Western Australia, Australia

Supporters

Rani Middleton’s family and friends have set up this campaign to raise funds to support Rani through cancer treatment.

In December last year, Rani Middleton was diagnosed with Stage 3C bowel cancer when she was nine weeks pregnant.

A high school drama and English teacher, Rani lives in Broome, north-western Australia. She is a loving wife to Nathan Laird, and mother of Mateo, 2. Rani’s kind spirit means all she meets feel special and valued.

In early November 2017 Rani began experiencing acute abdominal pain, nausea and difficulty eating. After persistent efforts to seek medical help, including four visits to the local Emergency Department, Rani was admitted to hospital on November 30 with suspected severe constipation. What was supposed to be exploratory keyhole surgery to remove a blockage ended in major surgery to remove a large tumour along with 40cm of Rani’s large intestine. Rani woke up to discover she had cancer at age 33.

As well as the bowel tumour, cancer cells were also found in lymph nodes and Rani’s abdominal fluid, indicating a high risk of further spreading. Added to this shock, while still recovering from the initial surgery, doctors advised that Nathan and Rani’s much-wanted pregnancy must be terminated.

Many have been distressed at Rani’s diagnosis and difficult journey so far. Rani means so much to her family, friends and community. Beyond her kindness and laughter Rani has given much of her love, time and skills to the local Broome community. Rani has taught drama and English at St Mary’s College for nine years, sat on the board for both Backroom Press and Theatre Kimberley, curated and run the 2016 Broome writer’s festival (Corrugated Lines), volunteered for many other community organisations and events like the Broome soup kitchen, and provided Barking Gecko children’s and self-run adult drama classes on weekends for several years.

At a time when Nathan and Rani should be celebrating the halfway mark of their second pregnancy, Rani has instead begun an intensive six-month course of chemotherapy to remove the remaining cancer cells. With treatment comes hope – hope for complete healing and many more years with her husband and son. From underneath the battering pain, multiple operations and distress of her diagnosis, Rani has emerged with grace, determination and courage.

Living in a remote area attracts significant logistics and costs with treatment. Rani must fly to Perth every three weeks to receive chemo (a 2.5 hour flight). A carer needs to accompany Rani with each trip, which will generally be one of her parents, so that Nathan and Mateo can remain in Broome. PATS (the State government) pay for return flights between Broome and Perth for Rani and a carer. However, other costs are borne by Rani, Nathan and their extended family. For example, Rani’s parents, Matthew and Juliet, will regularly take time off work and fly to Broome from their home on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland to take turns living with Rani, assisting to care for both Rani and Mateo, and accompanying Rani to Perth for treatment.

Many of us want to help and a wonderful way to do this is by donating towards these costs. Donations will:

The target goal reflects some of Rani and Nathan’s loss of income along with these future costs.

Any donations, big or small, will help to lift the financial burden from Rani and Nathan, so they can focus on Rani’s recovery. Donations will not only help Rani and her family at this very trying time, but offer a way for all whose lives are enriched by Rani’s beautiful personality, spirit and sense of community to show their love, support and care.

You can stay in touch with Rani through her blog: https://meandmysemicolon.wordpress.com/

By Rani’s friends and family

(If you’d like to get in contact with us please email: [email protected])

PS. For info about the cost of cancer for patients and their family see: https://cancerforum.org.au/forum/2017/july/impact-of-financial-costs-of-cancer-on-patients-the-australian-experience/

The article states: “The financial burden of cancer does not rest on patients alone, with the overall cost to the household estimated to be $47,200.”

Jacquie Heron

6 years ago

$100

Anonymous

6 years ago

$100

Nicole Weston

6 years ago

$100

James Kucan

6 years ago

$100

Belinda, Karl and Liam Nixon

6 years ago

$25

Jane Zehnder

6 years ago

$30

Olivia Scanlon

6 years ago

$50

Anonymous

7 years ago

$100

Chris Davies

7 years ago

$100

Peter & Fiona Herrington

7 years ago

$100

David Booth

7 years ago

$500

Deb McDonald

7 years ago

$500

Anonymous

7 years ago

$25

John Willis

7 years ago

$100

Kerry Marvell

7 years ago

$50

Anonymous

7 years ago

$200

Monique Le Lievre

7 years ago

$50

Ni Luh Armini

7 years ago

$100

Gareth, Lauren and Harvey Jenkins

7 years ago

$100

Kati Watkinson

7 years ago

$25

Michelle Pyke

Last week, Rani returned to Perth to start the final round of chemo. It has been a long and intense six months of treatment. Rani’s blog gives some insight into her experience: https://meandmysemicolon.wordpress.com/ Waking up the morning after starting this crowdfund back in February we felt blessed. Your response was overwhelming. We are so pleased the campaign was well received by a beautiful community of people who responded quickly and lovingly. Rani, Nathan, family and friends are very grateful to everyone who donated to this campaign, dropped in for a visit, and/or offered help and love in all sorts of ways. As organisers we would like to take this moment to say thank you. Thank you for helping our dear friend, sister, daughter, mother, teacher, wife. This campaign has helped someone from Rani’s family travel from the east coast to be with her for the entire six months. What that has for meant for Rani and her family can’t be easily put into words. While the campaign will, for now, remain open for anyone who wishes to donate, we wanted to let you know how much you have helped. The target goal has been reached with funds from the campaign and private donations. Once this round of chemo finishes, Rani is due to have tests in late September to see where she is at. In the meantime the doctors have told her it will take some months to regain her health and strength, and to keep up with the TLC. Again, thank you, for your love and generosity.

Last week, Rani returned to Perth to start the final round of chemo. It has been a long and intense six months of treatment. Rani’s blog gives some insight into her experience: https://meandmysemicolon.wordpress.com/

Waking up the morning after starting this crowdfund back in February we felt blessed. Your response was overwhelming. We are so pleased the campaign was well received by a beautiful community of people who responded quickly and lovingly. Rani, Nathan, family and friends are very grateful to everyone who donated to this campaign, dropped in for a visit, and/or offered help and love in all sorts of ways.

As organisers we would like to take this moment to say thank you. Thank you for helping our dear friend, sister, daughter, mother, teacher, wife. This campaign has helped someone from Rani’s family travel from the east coast to be with her for the entire six months. What that has for meant for Rani and her family can’t be easily put into words.

While the campaign will, for now, remain open for anyone who wishes to donate, we wanted to let you know how much you have helped. The target goal has been reached with funds from the campaign and private donations.

Once this round of chemo finishes, Rani is due to have tests in late September to see where she is at. In the meantime the doctors have told her it will take some months to regain her health and strength, and to keep up with the TLC.

Again, thank you, for your love and generosity.

7 years ago

Peter & Fiona Herrington

Love to your beautiful family from the Herringtons. We have been doing our utmost to manifest for you a sea which seems less stormy. Please know that we are in the boat with you regardless. Love and light to all you lovely humans and bless your semi colon with good health and vitality. XOXO

7 years ago

Ni Luh Armini

Thinking of you through this hard time Rani and family! Lots of love from us xoxo Ni Luh, Wayan & Harley

7 years ago

Michael McCall

Much healing love to you x

7 years ago

Luke and Holly Stanley

Big love from the east coast over to your beautiful family guys. Sending all our thoughts and positive vibes for a strong recovery, Rani! Hol and Luke x

7 years ago

Megan Marshall

To Rani, Nath and Teo sending you all our love and strength, kick cancers butt xxxx love megan, jordan, mia, lucy and jack

7 years ago

Soleil White

Sending lots of love and energy your way Miss Rani

7 years ago

EMILY GILHOME

Beautiful Rani – all the strength in the works. You’re a kickass woman and I know you’ll show cancer who’s boss xxxx

7 years ago

Desiree Hough

My sincere loving best wishes for a full recovery with many years left to love and be blessed Rani in this precious life

7 years ago

Ross Parolin

Thanx Rueben for putting the word out ….much love and prayers to Rani and family xx Kijay

7 years ago

Anthony Romilio

Rani, Nathan and Mateo. Thinking of you all during this time. Wishing you a full recovery

7 years ago

Elena Low

Hope that Rani gets all the support and care she needs. Kae Woei & Elena (ex-UWA)

7 years ago

Theodore Garrow

Hi Rani & Nathan, I hope this small donation can go a long way for you both, you are both such wonderful people and made my stay in Broome a really amazing experience, you made such an effort and made me feel right at home. Rani, we are all thinking of you here and we know you will be able to beat this soon. Theo

7 years ago

Amelia Reece

Thinking of you all. Sending much love your way. From Jimmy and Ames x

7 years ago

Hilary Smale

Sending much love and support to Rani and extended families. With love from Hilary xxx

7 years ago

Sonny Roworth

Sending so much love to you and your family love emma, sonny, Alti & Lexi xxxx

7 years ago

Emma marsden

Sending lots of love and energy your way Rani lots of love emma, sonny, Alti & Lexi xxx

7 years ago

VICTORIA ROYDS

Love you Rani. Sending Goddess energy to heal you quick. love Victoria xoxo

7 years ago

Julie & Allan Cox & Day

What a shock, be strong. Thinking of you… Julie & Allan

7 years ago

Diana Elsner and Luke Pont

We send you all our love and strength Rani. You have amazing people around you and God is with you. We pray for you and your family ❤️

7 years ago

Jimmy Asimacopoulos

Biggest love. Jimmy & Jannah xxxxxxxxxxx

7 years ago

Jennifer Patrick

Love and hugs. xxx

7 years ago

Tania McKenna

Love you loads Rani x

7 years ago

Robyn and Bindi Dennis

Love going to you from far away places. Robyn and Bindi

7 years ago

Chloe Clark

Much love to you all.

7 years ago

Julie Rowe

We love you, Rani. Praying for a speedy recovery. Sending big hugs. XXXXX

7 years ago

Thomas Holyoake

Skitchem! From Tom And Jemma

7 years ago

Bonnita Travers

To Rani and Nathan my heartfelt thoughts through the unknown and scary times ahead.My wishes for a recovery that woll keep you strong and safe together in your beautiful family xx

7 years ago

Andrew MacDonald

Get well XXX

7 years ago

Alexander Chalmers

Sending Alex, Harriet and my love and support from Sydney. You and Nath were so generous and welcoming to me during my time in Broome, and by the looks of this page I’m not the only one who feels indebted to you. Sandy

7 years ago

Sharon Rappolt

Our love to Rani and her family. Our best wishes and prayers from the Belcher/Rappolt family.

7 years ago

Sharon Rappolt

Our love to Rani and her family. Our best wishes and prayers from the Belcher/Rappolt family.

7 years ago

Rachael Chiristensen

We are all thinking of you and your family. Big Broome hugs, Rachael, Wenonah and Ava xx

7 years ago

Samantha Young

I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting you but I’m sure you’re as wonderful as your brother. All the love in this tough time.

7 years ago

Melanie Virgo

Sending love to you and your family x

7 years ago

Melanie Virgo

Sending love to you and your family x

7 years ago

Madelaine Dickie

Tom and Mad sending biggest mob love from Exmouth xxxxxx

7 years ago

Cassandra Douglas-Hill

Letmus know if they’re a anything we can do. Fingers, toes everything crossed!

7 years ago

Gail Power

By your side Rani, Nathan, Mateo and extended family.

7 years ago

Alice Schwarz Brunold

much love to you and the family Rani, stay strong ❤️

7 years ago

Sue & Richie

❤️

7 years ago

Daphne Gillett

Wowsers Rani! I only saw you the other day in passing at the beach. And had no idea!! Hang in there, stay strong and wishing you and your family much love. From Daphne and Georgia. X

7 years ago

Stephen Corns

Get well soon Rani! Lots of love from Stephen, Carly, Lilly and Darcy

7 years ago

Logan Deiley

Thinking of you and your family Rani xx

7 years ago

Matthew Hodges

All the best to you and your family, a former, fellow Withcotter

7 years ago

Tran Family

We are all in this together ❤️ #TeamRani ❤️

7 years ago

Eva Mitchell

Thinking of you Rani, and your family. X

7 years ago

Middleton / Chapple Family

Love you guys. Stay strong you mob x

7 years ago

Kirsty Pearson

Sending you all my love and healing energy. Keep fighting x

7 years ago

Oskar Booth

All our love from Oz & Katy xxx

7 years ago

Serena Parr

❤️ ❤️❤️

7 years ago

Ian Christie

Much LOVE Rani! Hopefully I’ll get to meet you and the rest of the family soon Hugs and kisses from Vancouver, Canada

7 years ago

Robyn Maher

Hey Rani devastated to hear this shit news. I can’t believe it! Fight the good fight. Chris and I are thinking of you and your family. Lots of love and positive thoughts heading your way x

7 years ago

Jimmy Thompson

Beaming Love and Strength for you to Thrive Rani xo Jamangie

7 years ago

Sandra Owen

Sending love, strength and healing wishes to Rani and family. We are very appreciative of the opportunity to make a contribution, Sandra and Daniel. XX

7 years ago

Theresa Bengtson

I’m thinking of you Rani and all your loved ones. We are all behind you.

7 years ago

Brown Family

I have never heard Rani ask for anything, she is normally the one giving.

7 years ago

Rachel Mason

Wishing you all your dreams come true – and every strength in your fight xx

7 years ago

Karen McGregor

Sending much love & healing to Rani, & love to the extended family xxoo❤️ ❤️

7 years ago

Karen McGregor

Please help this beautiful family ❤️❤️❤️ Thank you

7 years ago

Mia Klajn

Thinking of you Rani! All our love xxx

7 years ago

Barbara Haimowitz

Dear Juliet, please pass along our love and well wishes for Rani!! I think about you a lot….stay strong!

7 years ago

marie blanch

All the best Rani. Whatever you need … ask. Love you and your family. Marie.

7 years ago

Angela Anderson

Keep Rani in your thoughts. Here’s a special way to help her.

7 years ago

Angela Anderson

You are an amazingly strong person Rani x

7 years ago

Gillian Kennedy

Lots of love to you, Rani. I will share far and wide. Gillian x

7 years ago

Philippa Hansen

Lots of love Rani, Nath and Teo From Pip, Ben and Angus xoxoxo

7 years ago

Amy Andison

Sending you so much love and strength Rani, now it’s time for others to give and care for you xxx

7 years ago

Shayne Clark

Such a beautiful woman x sending you lots of strength and ❤️

7 years ago

Patricia (Trish) Pepper

You are a beacon of light in our lives Rani. Love Trish P

7 years ago

Shantell Conliffe

Thinking of you and your family. Stay strong gorgeous lady and sending all the positivity we can. Big hugs to you all x

7 years ago

Tristan Morgan

Sending all our love and support – you’ll kick this thing!! Robyn, Remy, Tristan xx

7 years ago

Mike O’Hanlon

Rani, we are sending you, Nath, Mateo and your family love and big hugs from afar. We hope this helps. Love Holly & Mike xx

7 years ago

Amy and Matt Edgerton

Sending lots of love from Perth! Matt and Amy xxx

7 years ago

Michelle Pyke

So much love to you, Rani, Nathan and Mateo. I really hope our support can help ease the journey a little and help care for your beautiful family.

7 years ago

Michelle Pyke

Fie West

Holly Scott

Jacinta Middleton

Sally Wilkinson