Support for Kate & Stephen Phillips

UPDATE-

We are overwhelmed and so blessed by the generous support from the community. Words cannot begin to express the gratitude in our hearts. I have decided to up the initial goal to further support Kate & Stephen Phillips through the long recovery ahead.

Thank you so, so much.

Dear community,

A few weeks ago, my beautiful mum's world came crashing down when she received news that a large tumour had been found in her pancreas.

For those of you who know Kate Phillips, you know she is held dear to many in the community. She is compassionate, loving, generous, always helping and holding space for those around her. She is a beloved mother of 2, wife to Stephen, sister, daughter, friend, community member, local council employee and yoga teacher here in the Blue Mountains.

This news has been a huge shock for our family and all that know and love her.

On the 28th of April, Kate is going in for major abdominal surgery to remove the

tumour.

This complex operation will be a huge procedure, as we have been told it will require the removal of her gallbladder, part of her stomach, the head of her pancreas and part of her upper intestines. This means that even if the operation is successful, she has a difficult and long recovery ahead and it is likely she will not be able to return to work in any capacity for some months.

Unfortunately, Mum has already exhausted her sick leave and annual leave

entitlements during the lead up to her surgery, therefore will not receive any paid leave from her work.

Stephen is a loving husband and father who is doing everything in his power to be there for Kate in this challenging time. However, he is overwhelmed by also trying to keep the family afloat financially.

He will need to take extra time off work to be by Kate’s side in the hospital and to support her through her recovery.

My father is self-employed and has no leave entitlements to help with this period either.

My heart breaks to see my parents struggle with this upcoming financial pressure on top of the grief they are experiencing emotionally.

Kate and Stephen have spent their lives giving generously to others, but I hope now is their time to receive. As a family, we know the next months ahead will be

extremely tough, so I am asking for help on their behalf.

This gofundme is to help alleviate the worry of money, allowing my beautiful mother to concentrate on her recovery and my father to care for her and the family.

My family will be eternally grateful for any help you can offer, no matter how

big or small it may seem.

Anything raised will go directly towards keeping them afloat and supported through this difficult time.

With deep gratitude,

Rhiannon Phillips