Heading back to school is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring its share of stress. To help your child start the year off on the right foot, here are some essential items and tips to ease the back-to-school jitters:
1. Invest in a High-Quality Backpack
A good backpack is a must-have for students who carry a variety of items, from lunch boxes and water bottles to books and stationery. Look for a comfortable, durable rucksack with adjustable straps and multiple compartments to help organise everything. A well-designed backpack can make all the difference in your child’s day!
2. Essential Stationery Supplies
A complete stationery set is key for primary school students. Make sure to stock up on these basics:
   • Pencils
   • Highlighters
   • Pens
   • Folders with pockets
   • Three-ring binders
   • Lined notebooks
   • Ruler
   • Calculator
   • Index cards
   • Stretchable book covers
   • Sticky notes
These items will not only help with everyday learning but also keep things organized for easy access.
3. Lunch Boxes and Water Bottles
Healthy eating habits start with good planning. A sturdy, reliable lunchbox ensures your child can enjoy fresh, nutritious meals at school. Don't forget a reusable water bottle to keep your child hydrated throughout the day!
4. Educational Games and Toys
Learning can be fun! Educational games help promote creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. Choose toys that foster interactive learning and encourage your child’s curiosity. These can be a great addition to their at-home study routine.
5. Scientific and Graphing Calculators (for High Schoolers)
For high school students diving into advanced math or science courses, a scientific or graphing calculator is essential. Make sure it meets the school's requirements and is appropriate for your child’s course load. Brilliant Minds offers a range of Sharp calculators at competitive prices in Australia.
6. Planners and Organisers
High school brings a surge of responsibilities, from homework assignments to extracurricular activities. A well-organised planner can help your child stay on top of deadlines and improve time management skills. The 2024 Student Diary, available at Brilliant Minds, is a fantastic tool to keep everything in order.
By preparing with these essentials, your child will feel more confident and organised as they embark on the school year. Let the learning and growth begin!

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As the seasons transition from summer to autumn and you have no idea what to plant, here’s a helpful planting guide with some growers that do well in both seasons. The Whitsundays is located in the Wet & Dry Tropical zones of north Queensland and the plants below can handle the weather and the heat.
Starting small with some ground cover, the native coleus is great for damp soil, sun or part shade and naturally thrives in eucalypt forests and rainforests. They are hardy, tough little plans that can be pruned into shape and are suitable for hedging and bordering gardens. Their little purple flowers attract bees, and when rubbed the leaves produce a mild lemon scent.
Marigolds and sunflowers, though not native, have been a staple in Australian gardens for years. They are also productive plants for those who like growing edible flora. From collecting your own sunflower seeds or putting marigold petals in your salads, to insect attraction for those wanting help with crop pollination and honey production. Having both of these in your gardens will help them thrive as marigolds also repel harmful pests, and both flowers come in varying sunny colours, so you can mix and match them.
For a hardy-medium-sized plant, kangaroo paw is a great choice to give levels to your garden. With cute little flowers, from where it takes its name and native to Western Australia means it can definitely survive in your garden. It’s a big attractor of native birds and very low effort to care for, plant it in large groups for the best flowering results.
Get gardening and show off your green thumbs, your native fauna with thank you!

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While we are in the thick of storm season, it's important to prepare your trees for the weather to prevent incidents that could put you or your property at risk. Here’s some helpful advice on how to prepare your trees and keep them safe during storms.
Assessing your trees is the best place to start. Consulting an arborist can be done if you are not familiar with your trees or if you need a professional, second opinion. All trees are different, and not every protective method is applicable to every tree on your property.
If your tree presents a storm risk, prevention is better than no action. Starting early in their growth to promote healthy roots and a strong trunk will not only reduce their risk but also improve the longevity and health of your trees. Try not to plan major earthworks around trees this season, as the rain can wash the soil away, causing the roots to loosen, thus uprooting the tree and causing it to topple.
Selected pruning can also strengthen branches. Cutting away dead or broken branches, along with any that are close to structures like hanging electrical wires or your roof, is another good preventative measure. This reduces the chances of branches snapping in the winds, and good pruning at a young age can also make your trees more resilient.
Other methods, like anchoring and tenting, can be used, but if done incorrectly, they can do more damage than good. So, make sure you do your research and look after your trees this storm season for their health, your safety, and your peace of mind.

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Meet Pascal, who is still looking for his furever home! Pascal is the zaniest feline teenager around! He's got swag and isn't afraid to show it. This self-assured adolescent kitty is still learning the ropes of being a social butterfly, so be prepared for some playful mischief.

While still having some growing up to do, Pascal vacillates between caution and hyperactivity. If you have a feisty feline friend with comparable energy for him to play with, that'd be purrfect and would greatly enhance his socialisation.
While Pascal is a great companion, he requests a home with no children - Pascal needs grown-ups who can keep up with his antics. He requires patient owners with some cat experience and the willingness to invest time in his training.
To learn more about adopting Pascal, please contact:
Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $170
Age: 1 years old
Sex: Male
Other dogs: untested
Other Cats: Yes
Children: No
Vaccinated: Yes
Desexed: Yes
Microchipped: yes

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To ensure everyone can enjoy their holidays in 2025, we’ve created a guide highlighting some of the accessible experiences available in the Whitsundays. Home to some of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, the Whitsundays ensures everyone can enjoy these bucket-list experiences safely, comfortably, and stress-free. 
Daydream Island
Great for: Travellers with Visual Impairments | Wheelchair Users
A sensory haven, Daydream Island offers tactile experiences like feeding rays at the Living Reef. Wheelchair-accessible rooms with thoughtful layouts provide a seamless stay.

Cruise Whitsundays
Great for: Semi-Mobile Wheelchair Users
Specialised beach wheelchairs make Whitehaven Beach accessible, with assistance for paddling and fish feeding.

Driftwood Tours
Great for: Travellers with Sensory Needs
Relaxed small-group tours explore tranquil spots like Hideaway Bay, perfect for a calm and immersive experience.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort
Great for: Wheelchair Users | Vision Impairments | Deaf Guests | Children with Autism
This award-winning resort offers accessible rooms, Braille signage, hearing loops, and a sensory room designed for children with autism, ensuring an inclusive stay.

Whitsundays Prosocial Support Services
Great for: Travellers Needing Personalised Support
Provides support while you explore the region, with accessible tours and accommodation, ensuring you're fully supported throughout your entire holiday experience.
For the full guide, visit: https://bit.ly/AccessibleWhitsundays
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

Making the Whitsundays more accessible

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I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Cannonvale State School earlier this year, where I was immersed in an incredibly insightful, educational, and inspiring experience with Wildlife Whitsundays. Tenielle, our local Wildlife Ranger, brought an abundance of show-worthy energy to a captivating and interactive session for the kids at school. The children were treated to an up-close encounter with various fascinating wildlife, and Teneille's passion for education was truly inspiring.

As the region's primary mobile wildlife provider, Whitsunday Wildlife offers diverse experiences for schools, corporate events, markets, festivals, private functions, and community events. From interactive presentations to hands-on encounters with insects and animals, the options are versatile and can be tailored to suit the specific needs of each audience.

The impact of Wildlife Whitsundays extends far beyond entertainment. The team is passionately dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world, and it's truly inspiring to see them making such a positive difference in the community.

This family-owned business is an incredible addition to our land-based activities in the Whitsundays, and it's exciting to watch them rise to their fullest potential. With wonderful new prospects on the horizon, we are so fortunate as a community to have the addition of Teneille and Whitsunday Wildlife in our region.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

Jade Yvone holding snake
TW visit Wildlife Whitsundays

Aaron Lewis is a highly experienced real estate professional with over 25 years in the industry. He began his career in 1998 in Horsham, Victoria, before moving to Melbourne and later returning to Horsham in 2002.
Over the years, Aaron has held pivotal leadership roles, including founding an independent office under the Ballarat-based Jen's Gaunt franchise. This initiative quickly expanded, with Aaron managing a portfolio of over 450 properties.
In March of the previous year, he successfully sold his business, marking a significant career milestone. Through these experiences, Aaron has cultivated a strong reputation for his industry expertise and unwavering commitment to exceptional service. With extensive training and leadership experience, he has earned the trust and respect of the real estate community, establishing himself as a trusted and respected figure in the field.
In November, Aaron made the bold decision to relocate to Proserpine in the Whitsundays, eager to embrace a new challenge and expand his expertise in a different market. Now based in this stunning area, Aaron continues to bring his wealth of knowledge, exceptional customer service, and a deep understanding of the real estate market to his clients.
Aaron highlighted his extensive experience across various sectors of real estate, including commercial, rural lifestyle properties, and residential. While he is well-versed in all these areas, his primary focus and expertise remain in residential real estate.
Aaron's wealth of experience is what makes him stand out as an exceptional Sales Specialist. While his extensive real estate career speaks for itself, Aaron also says his life experience is what helps him to relate to clients and help them find their dream property.
Aaron describes himself as approachable and prioritises his clients' comfort throughout the process. He never pressures potential buyers into decisions they’re not ready to make, always ensuring that the needs and preferences of the person purchasing the home come first.
“It is one of the biggest transactions people make,” Aaron explained.
Having worked on a farm the last year, Aaron revealed how this helps him to facilitate those wanting lifestyle or farmland blocks.
“I can relate to people who want these types of properties, because I have that experience back home,” Aaron explained.
The Whitsundays boasts a highly competitive housing market, with properties often selling in just a week, according to Aaron.
Aaron shared his love for the relaxed vibe of the Whitsundays and expressed his excitement about diving back into his hobbies. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, scuba diving, and motorbiking.
Eager to connect with the local community, Aaron invites everyone to come say hello. Welcome to the Whitsundays, Aaron!

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Aaron Lewis At The Proserpine Taylors Branch. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hi Everyone,

I’m pleased to inform you that our team continues to expand!

Our Cadet Journalist, Daniel Heggie, has moved up to the Ingham to be part of the launch team for the new Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper which we started in November.

This means we are now welcoming Whitsunday Life Newspaper’s newest Cadet Journalist Victoria Velton to the team.

She will work alongside Ruth Puddefoot in the editorial department.

Also, new to the team is our Sales Account Manager Kerry Eastwood who started a couple of weeks ago – you can read all about her on page 10 of the paper this week.

Kerry will be working with our Sales Manager Trish Jandt and is dedicated to helping local businesses with their promotional needs.

If you would like to find out more how this newspaper can help your business reach the heart of the community, make sure get in-touch with Kerry directly.

This week represents this first time our team has gone to print with four newspapers and two magazines in the same week and I have to be honest, it’s not a deadline I have been looking forward to!

Fortunately, by the time many of you are reading this we will have made it to print and my two-week holiday can begin.

I’m heading down the coast with my family and we’ll be sending some time with my in-laws on Bribie Island before visiting friends in Byron Bay and then finishing up with more extended family time in Mooloolabah.

I am so excited to switch of a replenish, but equally excited to come back refresh and ready to the serve the community once again.

In the meantime, I’ll be leaving you in the very capable hands of Ruth Puddefoot who will lead the editorial under the supervision of our Mackay Editor, Amanda Wright.

Have a great few weeks and I’ll see you at the end of the month.

Rach

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At the beginning of the year, Frankie O'Brien reached out to the Bowen community for support after being hospitalized due to a severe flare-up of her terminal autoimmune disease, Mastocytosis.
In her Facebook post, she explained that she had developed five diabetic ulcers on her foot, requiring daily wound care at the hospital. Although the hospital was only 609 meters away, Frankie shared that she is highly allergic to UV exposure, making even short walks dangerous for her.
With limited financial resources and no personal transport, Frankie asked if anyone in the community could help by offering her a lift to her appointments.
The response from the Bowen community was overwhelming. Many generous individuals stepped forward, offering to drive her to the hospital, ensuring she could receive the care she needed, and guaranteeing she got to her appointments without fail.
The kindness and compassion shown by the community were truly heartwarming and provided Frankie with much-needed relief during a challenging time.

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By Hannah McNamara

After two decades of dedicated service in the medical field, Dr. Ben Shepherd, clinical lead at CQ Rescue in Mackay, has recently been selected for an exclusive secondment with the London Air Ambulance, one of the world’s most advanced helicopter emergency medical services. This prestigious opportunity places him among a select group of helicopter rescue doctors - fewer than 1 per cent globally - who have achieved this milestone.

The selection process for this role is fiercely competitive, often filled years in advance. For Dr. Shepherd, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not only sharpens his trauma care expertise but also brings cutting-edge medical insights back to the Mackay region.

Dr. Ben Shepherd, clinical lead at CQ Rescue in Mackay, has been selected for an exclusive secondment with the London Air Ambulance, joining the elite ranks of fewer than 1 per cent of helicopter rescue doctors globally. Photo supplied

Despite the significance of this honour, Dr. Shepherd remains characteristically humble, emphasising the collaborative nature of his work and the broader team effort at CQ Rescue.

“I think I’ve been a bit lucky with the selection process,” Dr. Shepherd said.

“I’m very grateful, and this is a great opportunity for me to improve my own knowledge and skills and work alongside world leaders in trauma care.

“Hopefully, I can bring some of that back to our team here to help with training and education locally.”

The London Air Ambulance operates in one of the busiest cities in the world, using cutting-edge technology and advanced trauma care procedures. Dr. Shepherd is eager to learn from their innovations, which he says are at the forefront of pre-hospital trauma care.

“London is the place where some of the most advanced trauma care techniques are developed and applied,” he explained.

“I’m looking forward to learning from them and seeing how we can adapt some of their practices to benefit our local community.”

Dr. Shepherd’s career in helicopter EMS spans six years, with nearly five of those dedicated to CQ Rescue in Mackay. In addition to flying missions as a specialist on the rescue helicopter, he plays a key role in training the team’s doctors and paramedics.

While he is passionate about saving lives in the field, Dr. Shepherd finds equal fulfillment in mentoring new medical professionals.

“What I enjoy most is helping people who are coming into the medical industry for the first time and seeing them gain confidence in this challenging role.” he said.

“To see them develop and enjoy themselves is probably what I enjoy the most about this role.

“I love my job and it’s incredibly rewarding to work within a motivated, high-performing team.”

This secondment marks the first time a CQ Rescue doctor - and possibly anyone from the Mackay region - has been selected to work with the London Air Ambulance. However, Dr. Shepherd is quick to deflect attention from his personal achievements.

“There are so many talented people in this industry who are just as deserving of an opportunity like this,” he said.

“It’s not really about me…I’m just lucky to have the chance to learn from the best and bring that knowledge back to our team.

“I’m just happy to go about my work.”

As part of CQ Rescue, Dr. Shepherd has witnessed firsthand the importance of helicopter EMS in regional communities like Mackay. The service often intervenes during the most critical moments of people’s lives, responding to emergencies that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

“Our team, full of doctors, paramedics, aircrew, engineers, and support staff, works tirelessly to provide the best care possible during someone’s worst day,” Dr. Shepherd shared.

His upcoming experience in London will undoubtedly enhance CQ Rescue’s ability to serve the Mackay community. Beyond his personal development though, Dr. Shepherd sees this opportunity as a chance to strengthen the entire team.

As he prepares for this career-defining secondment, Dr. Shepherd remains grounded, focused, and committed to his cherished work colleagues and community.

“I’m proud to be part of a team that’s so dedicated to helping others,” he said.

“This isn’t about me…Ultimately, it’s about delivering better outcomes for the people we serve.”

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It has been an incredibly tragic start to 2025 for many local families, and my heart goes out to all those affected. The devastating house fire in Sarina is unimaginable—such a loss is beyond words. A 25-year-old man tried desperately to save his mother from the flames, but tragically, she passed away. The loss of a loved one in such a way is heartbreaking, and I can only imagine the profound grief this family is experiencing.
Sadly, the beginning of the year has seen further accidents on our roads. There have been multiple serious crashes, including on the Peak Downs and Bruce Highways, with another life lost this week on Hay Point Road. While some accidents are the result of driver error, the condition of our roads certainly plays a role in these tragedies.
When Prime Minister Albanese announced a $7B package for the Bruce Highway aimed at regional areas earlier this week, I initially felt hopeful. However, after reviewing the details, I was disappointed to see that stretches of road in our region—particularly from St Lawrence to Sarina—remain in dire condition. This area, one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in the country, continues to be neglected despite being a vital part of the arterial route connecting the north and south of the region.
This highway network is meant to support the beating heart of our economy, the Bowen Basin coal industry, which drives so much of our prosperity, at local, state and national levels. It’s baffling that such an essential route, which keeps our communities and industries connected, hasn’t been given the priority it so desperately needs.
The state of this stretch of the Bruce Highway isn’t just a local concern; it’s a national issue that demands immediate attention. If we’re serious about improving the safety and economic stability of our region, the condition of this critical highway needs to be addressed—sooner rather than later. I encourage you to read more about the funding and our local politicians' responses on pages 6-7.
To all those affected by recent tragic events, my thoughts are with you. For anyone in need of support, the GriefLine helpline is available seven days a week from 8am-8pm on 1300 845 745.
Amanda

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A humble trolley pusher at Sydney Street Coles has become the unexpected hero of Mackay, earning heartfelt praise from shoppers for his selfless acts of kindness and unrelenting work ethic.

Local shoppers have taken to social media to express their admiration for Linden, a young man appearing to be in his late 20s with a signature Afro hairstyle and tattoos on his lower arms.

One shopper posted, “Every time I go to Coles, I see him helping elderly people with their groceries, taking trolleys so we don’t have to walk them back, and even walking staff to their cars late at night. He’s such a genuine guy.”

Another shared how Linden’s cheerful demeanour and helpful nature left a lasting impression. 

“In the short time I was there, I saw him help an elderly lady to her car, guide people out of their parks, and collect trolleys from cars - always with a smile!”

Rain or shine, Linden’s dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Shoppers have remarked on the way he keeps trolley bays tidy, ensuring the area runs smoothly, regardless of Mackay’s often unpredictable weather.

One admirer summed it up best: “He works his butt off and makes the whole shopping experience better. I’ll be bringing chocolates and flowers for him next week - he deserves it.”

Linden’s efforts remind us that kindness and hard work can truly brighten a community. In a world that often feels rushed, it’s these small yet powerful gestures that leave a lasting impact.

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A quiet Sunday in Sarina took a tragic turn when a devastating house fire claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman and left her 25-year-old son with severe burns. The harrowing incident unfolded at a high-set home on Kathleen Street on January 5, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.

Emergency services were alerted just after 4.25pm, and when firefighters arrived, they found the home completely engulfed in flames. The inferno raged as crews fought tirelessly to bring it under control, but the intensity of the fire left little chance for escape. Inside the charred remains of the home, firefighters discovered the woman’s body in her bedroom.

Paramedics on the scene worked desperately to revive her, however they were unsuccessful in their attempt.

Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed that four individuals were assessed at the scene.

The woman was tragically declared deceased, while her 25-year-old son, who suffered severe burns to his arms, was transported to Mackay Base Hospital for urgent treatment.

Two others - believed to be firefighters - were treated for heat exhaustion and taken to the hospital in stable conditions.

Initial investigations suggest the blaze started in the kitchen, with Detective Inspector Emma Novosel revealing that an unattended stove may have been the cause. Early investigations allege that a person within the home had been cooking earlier that afternoon and accidentally left the stove on, sparking a fire that quickly spread through the Sarina home.

It is alleged that in the chaos, the young man desperately tried to save his mother. Battling through thick smoke and searing flames, he attempted to extinguish the fire and evacuate her. But as the blaze intensified, the oppressive heat and smoke overwhelmed him, forcing him to escape alone, badly injured.

Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire, but the home was left in ruins. Authorities established a crime scene as fire investigators worked to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Authorities are now urging residents to take extra precautions, particularly in the kitchen.

As the woman’s son recovers from his injuries, he now faces the unimaginable challenge of rebuilding his life while mourning the loss of his mother.

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the family involved in this harrowing tragedy.  

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A devastating house fire in Sarina on January 5 claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman and left her 25-year-old son with severe burns

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Meet baby Telicia, who chose the first moments of the year for her arrival into the world on 1 January, making her the first baby born in the Mackay region for 2025.
Mum Heather Comer said she was not expecting bub to arrive on her due date, but she did just that at 12.16am weighing 3760g (8lb 2oz).
“I had a calm and natural birth at the birth centre with the help of three wonderful midwives; Lisa, Julie and Danielle,” Heather said.
“And then also a team of doctors and nurses at the hospital, too many to name, but they have also helped heaps after the birth.”
Telicia is a little sister for Selah, another Mackay Birth Centre baby.
Welcome to the world baby Telicia, and congratulations Heather and Selah!

Welcome to the world, baby Telicia! Proud mum Heather Comer and bigsister Selah share a special moment with Mackay’s first baby of2025, born at 12:16am on New Year’s Day. Photo supplied

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A quick photograph was all it took for Annie Tomkinson to notice something that would change her family’s life forever.

She was at home in Mackay, enjoying a quiet afternoon with her newborn son, Lijah, when what appeared to be a golden reflection in his eye caught her attention.

“He just looked the right way and at the right angle, and I managed to get a photo of it,” Annie recalled.

Annie’s maternal instincts kicked in, and she wasted no time. Soon after, she showed the photo to her husband, Jay, and decided to consult a specialist…Within days, their lives were turned upside down.

At just six weeks old, scans revealed a tumour at the back of Lijah’s eye, and baby Lijah was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer affecting the eye.

On a Friday, they received the initial findings. By Monday, the diagnosis was confirmed, and by Wednesday, the family was aboard a plane, on their way to the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane to begin treatment.

“It happened all quite quickly,” Jay shared.

“From the Friday, then diagnosis on the Monday…and then we were on our way to Brisbane on the Wednesday.”

Lijah has since started chemotherapy, and despite the odds, his parents say that he is a “little fighter,” and “is responding very well to treatment.”

The family now makes regular trips to Brisbane for Lijah’s treatment, however, the expenses and time away from work have added immense strain. Yet, through it all, Annie and Jay remain focused on spreading awareness about retinoblastoma.

“I can’t imagine what life would look like if we hadn’t seen it,” Annie said, emphasising the importance of acting quickly and seeking medical advice if something seems unusual.

Relating to the Tomkinson family, one local shared, “My daughter was diagnosed with same cancer 15 years ago, but hers had spread to optic nerve luckily it was only one eye…She is now 15 years cancer free.”

Their story has touched hearts across the community after a GoFundMe page was set up to help with travel expenses, medical costs, and lost income. The family has already raised nearly $17,000, along with receiving multiple words of hope and encouragement on their Facebook page called “Lijah’s Journey.”

The funds raised will allow Jay to take time off work to be with Annie and Lijah during this critical period. It will also help cover the costs of accommodation, meals, and the many other expenses that come with being away from home for their baby boy’s treatment.

The Tomkinson family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.

“We are truly grateful for the support the community has shown in this difficult time.”

For those who wish to support baby Lijah’s journey, donations can be made through their GoFundMe page: “Help Lijah Beat Retinoblastoma.”

Annie Tomkinson’s quick photo and sharp instincts led to a life-saving diagnosis for her six-week-old son, Lijah, who is now bravely battling retinoblastoma - a rare eye cancer.  Photo source: Lijah’s Journey

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