Rainbows and Smiles takes on additional challenge of Covid-19 paediatric support

Rainbows and Smiles is a community-based, charitable foundation dedicated to providing emotional, social and financial support to children diagnosed with cancer.

This non-profit organisation was inspired by the life of Jed Brady Suckling, son of Bonita Suckling, the founder.

Jed bravely battled a form of brain cancer called anaplastic astrocytoma for more than three years.

The team of volunteers at Rainbows and Smiles have all been directly affected by childhood cancer.

Their priority has always been supporting families and children affected by paediatric cancer, and these dedicated women have followed their mission, stated in their constitution, and complied with the rules handed down by the Department of Social Development.

Rainbows and Smiles have been monitoring the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and following the guidance of national leaders, public health experts and the World Health Organization.

The team decided to make changes to their constitution to enable them to take on the additional challenge of supporting Covid-19 paediatric patients.

This was a difficult decision, because in nine years they have focused exclusively on paediatric oncology patients, driven by their very personal experiences with childhood cancer.

This means that they will now be actively supporting Covid-19 paediatric patients in South Africa.

“I hope that you will join us as we take on these additional responsibilities while this crisis continues. We will continue with advocacy, communications, public awareness and social upliftment initiatives. All decisions we make during this crisis will continue to reflect our commitment to serving our paediatric patients and their families.

“We remain focused on the spirit of our core mission, and will do whatever we can to support the well-being of our team, supporters and medical specialists we work with,” said Bonita.

Community members interested in making donations towards Rainbows and Smiles are encouraged to do so by using the following banking details:

Rainbow and Smiles

Bank: Standard Bank

Branch: Germiston, Lambton

Acc No 020 313 373

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