For many young people, surviving cancer isn’t the end of the cancer experience and completing treatment does not necessarily mean returning to life as it was before cancer. Redkite’s Dare to Dream Scholarship Program helps young people aged 16 to 21, with a current or past cancer diagnosis, to reach their full potential in their area of interest such as academic study, dance, drama, design, music or sport.

 

Jessica Eddy, last year’s Victorian scholarship winner, says her experience with cancer inspired her to enroll in a stage make-up course at TAFE.

 

Jessica said: “I was so excited to win this scholarship as it has enabled me to study to become a qualified makeup artist, specialising in stage makeup. The course has been great so far and I am learning a lot”.

 

“Makeup and hair [wigs] can actually lift spirits and confidence and make people feel better about themselves and because I’ve experienced this first hand, I would like to be able to share this with others.”

 

Tim Rogers, Redkite’s General Manager of National Services, said: “Young people who have faced cancer often discover great strengths and goals - and a passion to pursue them. However, it can be challenging for those young people to continue with or return to their education because of being unwell and the amount of time they have spent in hospital, as well as other challenges that cancer and treatment has put in their paths. Many young people also feel isolated during and after cancer treatment because they spend a lot of time away from their peers and classes. This scholarship scheme can assist them financially, such as enabling them to buy a laptop to keep them up to date with tutorials or to cover enrolment fees. And for young people who have experienced cancer in the past, a scholarship can give them the opportunity to develop their skills and to pursue their dreams.”

 

The 2009 winners will soon be announced with 31 scholarships to be won and the national winner receiving $5000 to help them pursue their area of interest.

 

You can help Redkite invest in the future of young cancer patients and survivors across Australia by participating in Kitetime and raising vital funds to ensure this important service continues.