Holiday Helpers Network

Established in early 2011 on Waiheke Island, the Holiday Helpers Network is a not-for-profit group of individuals, businesses and organisations that cooperates to provide free leisure and respite experiences to families with seriously ill or recently bereaved children." The Holiday Helpers Network have been incredibly supportive of IDFNZ and Kids Foundation through their provision of amazing services on Waiheke to our very deserving and grateful families. Rochelle Watson shares her story below, showing how amazing Holiday Helpers Network and the work they do really is!

Since being diagnosed with a very rare Primary Immune disorder CGD in 2011 , life has been anything other than normal for twins Logan , Caleb and parents Rochelle and Michael .

Selected for a surprise Waiheke holiday break the family was overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of HHN Waiheke Island and its business sponsors. “When IDFNZ called me up and asked if we would like to head over to Waiheke on a mini break, I jumped at the chance. My boys Logan and Caleb have had so many serious health challenges in the last few years – dealing with two medically fragile family members has taken a toll on the whole family. It was wonderful to be able to cheer everyone up with this unexpected surprise; the boys had never visited Waiheke and were very excited at the prospect .”

The family caught the ferry over to Waiheke, with fares sponsored by Sea link. They were overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness that greeted them. “We arrived to a very warm, bright holiday house with amazing sea views, greeted by the wonderful Karyn who gave us a rundown of what we could do over the next few days. The fridge and cupboards were well stocked with everything we could possibly need. ” For Mum Rochelle the holiday began with a luxurious relaxing body massage from the lovely Sue and later that day the whole family was treated to a wonderful lunch at the Oyster Inn. “An amazing treat!”

The family love the outdoors and enjoyed exploring Waiheke and taking in the beautiful sea views. They walked on treks in and around the island. “It was such a magical time, I was feeling so low the week before as the boys were facing yet more hospital tests. Only a few months ago Caleb was hospitalized with granulomas in his lungs and a biopsy caused his lung to collapse. These were very scary times that still haunt us. Spending time away from Auckland city and not having to think about ongoing hospital visits and blood tests was a real break for us all.”

“We had wonderful hot days with one morning being a bit wet but we were still able to get out and about. Waiheke was unbelievable. We got to try different olive oils, and met so many wonderful people. When it was time to leave we were sad, but we made the most of the last afternoon spending it on the beach and enjoying yummy pizzas.”

“What an amazing experience. Thank you so much -my family will be forever grateful for the time and generosity of Holiday Helpers Network Waiheke Island, and the local sponsors working with Dan and Karyn.” Rochelle Watson.

~See the link below to find out more about Waiheke Holiday Helpers Network!!~

http://www.holidayhelpers.co.nz/holiday-stories/caleb-logan-and-the-watson-family/