The Sunraysia community is rallying around Merbein Fire Brigade volunteer Alan Heaysman, who is terminally ill with cancer, by renovating his bathroom just in time for Christmas. Melanie Whiting spoke to Sherilee Skipper about Alan’s renovation dream. Pictures Louise Barker
Sherilee Skipper is on a mission to bring her friend of 15 years some comfort with a basic necessity.
She is organising a bathroom renovation for Merbein’s Alan Heaysman with the help of community volunteers as he undergoes chemotherapy for stage four cancer.
“His bathroom is not easy to get around, it’s an old-style house, so his toilet is outside his bathroom,” Sherilee says.
“If the renovation didn’t go ahead, Alan would’ve had to go to some sort of facility.
“Home is the best thing for him and being home with family is the best Christmas present he could have.”
The group of volunteers, led by renovation supervisor Peter Begg, got stuck into the renovation this week.
While it’s underway, Alan is spending some time relaxing at Aquarius Apartments, which has donated the accommodation.
“He’s been really well looked after there,” Sherilee says.
“It will give him a couple of days away while they’re doing things.”
With the deadline fast approaching in three weeks, several local business are rallying behind the cause by donating materials and trades.
Local businesses donating to Alan’s bathroom renovation include Reece Plumbing, Beaumont Tiles, Dahlsens, Gooding Plumbing, Haymes Paint Right, Cheap as Chips, De-Lights, Skip to the Tip and Mildura Flooring Xtra.
Electrician Jake Hill-Ford is also donating his time, with the group also needing a local plumber to lend a hand.
Anyone who would like to help can contact Sherilee Skipper via email shiraleeskipper2013@gmail.com
Alan’s wife Jen Heaysman has thanked volunteers and local businesses for their outstanding show of community spirit.
“We’re just overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity,” she says.
