Community & Business
22 March, 2023
Boost for book campaign for sick kids
A TROPICAL Games night held at Kairi State School on the weekend has raised $2500 to enable a book that explains cancer to kids to be distributed to children in hospitals throughout Queensland.
The “Book Angels” campaign was founded by author Crystal Leonardi, who was motivated by her son’s brain cancer diagnosis in 2020. She hopes to raise a total of $5000 for the campaign this year to provide 500 books to kids in hospitals.
“Book Angels” funds the production and distribution of her book “My Brother Sebastian” which explains cancer to primary school-aged kids in a safe, loving, and supportive way.
“Providing families with this special resource is my way of helping families like mine, who feel lost and scared when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Communication is key to making kids feel safe and supported, and this book is an ideal way to bring a family together during a really tough time,” Crystal said.
She said a team of passionate organisers, led by Prep/1 teacher Sandi Troncone, worked tirelessly to bring the event together.
“I feel immensely grateful and overwhelmed by the generosity of the Kairi community,” Crystal said.
In the lead-up to the event, Kairi State School rallied together on a beautification project, ensuring the school was ready for the event.
Crystal also read to the 100 Kairi State School students and answered questions and talk to the students about cancer which sparked much interest.
“After reading ‘My Brother Sebastian’, the children were engaged and willing to share their experiences with hospital visits and family members who live with a serious illness,” she said.
Crystal encourages individuals to offer their suggestions for recipients of “My Brother Sebastian”.
“If you know a family affected by a childhood cancer diagnosis, please get in touch at Leonardi.crystal@gmail.com,” she said.
Donations to “Book Angels” are always welcome. To find out more, head to the Book Angels tab on www.crystalleonardi.com
