Stawell’s Greg Hallam is pictured with his nieces Chelsea (left) and Isla. Three year old Isla, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at just 18 months of age, has been chosen as the face of the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal this year.
STAWELL - From religious services to sporting events, Easter has special significance for many.
One event that is synonymous with Good Friday is The Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
This year's Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal has special meaning for the Hallam family.
Greg and Sue Hallam's niece, three year old Isla Hallam has been chosen as the face of the Good Friday Appeal.
Isla was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at just 18 months of age.
The fast growing disease of the white blood cells is the most common type of childhood cancer, with about 50 children treated at the Royal Children's Hospital each year.
"The Royal Children's Hospital has been there every step of the way - her treatment has included numerous rounds of chemotherapy, lumbar punctures and blood tests," Mr Hallam said.
"We can only express our sincere thanks to the doctors, nurses and all the support staff at RCH for not only caring for Isla, but the many children and families who pass through the doors.
The support that all communities extend to RCH is fantastic as shown each year by the amount of money raised.
Isla is due for her last chemotherapy treatment in April.
Since 1931 the Good Friday Appeal has contributed more than $245 million to the Royal Children's Hospital.
In 2012, the Appeal raised the record breaking amount of $15,820,640.
The Hallam family members are already great supporters of the Appeal.
One of the many fundraisers for the hospital is The Herald Sun City Link Run for the Kids, which is on this Sunday in Melbourne.
In 2011, Isla's father Brett was the number one individual fundraiser in the annual fun run, raising $16,000.
Now the family has progressed to fundraising as Team Isla in the 2013 run.
As team captain, Isla said she wants to raise lots of money for her friends at the hospital.
"We will be pushing her around the five and a half kilometre course," Mr Hallam said.
"We would like to extend our thanks to Sue and the team at EmbroidAbility in Ararat, for assisting with our bright pink "Team Isla" caps, Isla loves them."
If you would like to support Team Isla you can by donating online at www.everydayhero.com.au/team_isla_13.
People are also being encouraged to support the volunteers who will be out collecting during the coming weeks and on Good Friday.
Mr Hallam said Isla and all the children of The Royal Children's Hospital appreciate the help.