CANSA-TLC NICUS LODGE
Cancer is devastating: emotionally, physically and mentally. The illness takes its toll not just on the patient, but also on the immediate family. The CANSA
TLC project reaches out to children with cancer and their parents/caregivers. The parents reside free of charge at Nicus Lodge on the hospital’s doorstep, while their children receive treatment at Steve Biko Hospital. Their lives are turned into a life living with illness day in and day out, and at Nicus Lodge these parents are given the opportunity to not only have a place to live, but also to be able to share their experiences with others and find a place of rest.
The MannaSonderMure feeding project run by KSM supplies cooked food which is delivered to the Lodge on a weekly basis.
Nicus Lodge also renders general support with daily living as well as support for pain control and prosthetics, emotional assistance and other services needed by those in this unenviable life situation. The needs for the upkeep of the Lodge are ongoing: apart from day to day running expenses there are also maintenance needs such as refurbishment and repairs to the building and fixtures. SUS grants have already made a mark at Nicus Lodge and will continue to do so.
Objectives
• To reach into the lives of those affected by childhood cancer and touch children and parents with love and support.
• To uplift family members and impart skills such as handcraft, crochet and knitting.
Legal Status
Registered as a NPC.
Attributes
• Registered as a NPO with the Department of Social Development.
• Qualifies for Section 18 A tax deduction.
• All SARS and Department of Social Development requirements are up to date.
Beneficiaries
Family members/caregivers of children who are receiving oncology treatment, mainly at the Steve Biko Hospital, but families from other hospitals who battle to cope with accommodation costs are also assisted.
Future Vision
To be able to render better support in the rural and outlying areas for families with children diagnosed with cancer and seriously ill, especially in Mpumalanga, North West Province and the Northern Cape.