Faith Macale
Spending Christmas Day in the hospital is not a common thing for most people, but for terminally ill children, that is the norm.
West man Daniel Roberts’ son contracted bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at just two months old and spent a week in hospital.
This drove Mr Roberts to raise funds for terminally ill kids through Very Special Kids.
“It was about a week in hospital with feeding tubes and oxygen, and it was a challenging week,” he said.
“It was hard to see your kid go through that.
“It would be even harder if my kid was terminally ill or had cancer or if they’ve got a short life expectancy.”
One night, while scrolling through TikTok, Mr Roberts found Very Special Kids, and from then, started a GoFundMe to raise money for sick children.
“It helps kids with terminal cancer, different disorders that shorten their life expectancy,” he said.
“It’s also about the parents trying to cope in those times.”
“Expenses for hospitals, medical treatment, just general needs … it could be just as simple as just formulas.
Mr Roberts said he heard stories from other parents when his son was in the hospital.
“They’re talking about their kids in the ICU and hospice, it also got to me,” he said.
“Coming up to Christmas, we enjoy buying all your kids presents, but we’ve got to do something nice, and give support to kids who need it.”
Like striking a spark that lit up big flames, Mr Roberts has raised $600, surpassing his initial goal of $500.
“Family, my wife, people at church, and friends, all the credit goes to them,” he said.
“I just started it, they’re the ones that made it grow.
“Just by donating a small amount or just contributing, you’re doing more for someone than what you already know.
“If you do it, it’s amazing what you’re doing.”
For donations, visit vsk.grassrootz.com/do-something-very-special-your-way/roberts-family
