By Justin RouillonFriday 30 Jul 2021SOSStation NewsReading Time: 4 minutes
Main Image: Ken & Nicky with Josh and Rachel Leembruggen. Listen: Ken & Nicky dropped in to surprise Josh and Rachel with some goodies for the whole family.
We’ve all struggled through the last six months as the coronavirus pandemic continues, but for the Leembruggen family 2021 has been especially challenging.
Just before Christmas Josh and Rachel Leembruggen were told the news that no parent wants to hear, when their four year old son Nate was diagnosed with leukaemia. To make matters worse Josh and Nate spent the first few weeks after diagnosis locked down in hospital, with visitors not allowed.
Josh, a PE teacher, has been on leave from work for the past six months to support Nate through the painful tests and chemotherapy treatment.
He told 96five’s Ken and Nicky that although he’s had a tough time dealing with the situation that the family was remaining positive.
“It’s definitely been the toughest time of my life but you’ve got to keep going. I’m just doing what any Dad would do for their kids, there’s plenty of people worse off than us.”
To top it all off both Josh and Rachel lost each of their grandfathers within days of each other, and the past six months have seen the family suffer financial pressure, as well as the stress and uncertainty of the situation.
It was mum of three Rachel, who reached out to 96five, not asking for help for herself, but asking for an SOS for Josh, so that he can have some time out.
“Organisations like Camp Quality are really good at looking after Nate”, Rachel said, “but there’s not much support for dads who look after their kids. This has hit Josh hard and it would be great if he could do some sporting activities to help him recharge.
“When you’re a mum of a child with cancer, all of your time goes into that child, and Josh has very little of my time. I nominate hime to say how much I appreciate him.”
96five was able to partner with a number of our friends to ensure that Josh can get some much needed R ‘n R, but we didn’t forget Rachel and the kids.
Thanks to our friends at X-Golf at Enoggera, Josh can enjoy a two hour golf simulator hire for up to six players. The Brisbane Broncos also put their hands up to help out providing a family pass to the Broncos, as well as a $250 Woolworths voucher to help out on the next shopping trip.
Rachel was spoiled with a gift pack from Kindred Boutique, chock full of fashion accessories, and what better way to show off those accessories than with a new style from Epic Hair Designs! There’s also a float therapy session on offer from City Cave to really help Rachel relax.
The kids are going to bee looked after with a day out at Trevena Glen Farm at Mount Samson, with a horse riding experience for Nate.
We need to say a massive thanks to the businesses who helped remind Josh and Rachel that Brisbane is thinking of them during this journey.
X-Golf Enoggera is Brisbane’s first X-Golf venue, located just 6km from the Brisbane CBD in the Pickering Place precinct. Open from 10.00am 7-days a week, X-Golf provides the ultimate golfing and entertainment experience for players of all levels. Our 5 simulators provide players access to the world’s best digital courses, driving range, practice mode and fun modes for like putt putt or mini golf style games.
The Broncos are Brisbane’s footy team – to find out more about memberships and games visit the Brisbane Bronco’s website.
Kindred Boutique is a clothing boutique in Brisbane with a difference. Instead of stocking run-of-the-mill brands found in stores worldwide, they intentionally seek out niche apparel makers with Australian pedigree.
As Brisbane Best Salon awarded by the AHIA 2020, Epic Hair Designs are leaders in the industry and proud to employ more Master Colourists than any other salon in the country. Offering the most highly skilled and trend-setting stylists, they create a unique experience for you, offering luxury services at affordable prices.
City Cave aim to increase longevity in our communities through tailored healthcare, adding quality years back to your life. Whether it’s physical, mental or biological, each site offers a range of float therapy, infrared saunas, and massage services to assist you in your journey through health.
Trevena Glen Farm is Brisbane’s best farm experience, located only 40 minutes from the CBD in beautiful Mount Samson. With twelve different types of animals to meet on the farm, you can connect with family and friends in a fun safe place.
