News & Events
More than a soft toy: Meet Elliot
For a child diagnosed with cancer, the world can suddenly become a very unfamiliar place.
There are hospital admissions, procedures, treatments, needles and appointments. There are days filled with uncertainty, and moments when children can feel scared, overwhelmed or simply tired of everything that comes with cancer.
That’s where Elliot comes in.
Watch our video and hear about Elliot through the eyes of a child.
More than a soft toy
From the moment a child is referred to the Childhood Cancer Association, they receive their very own Elliot dog.
Elliot becomes a familiar face in an unfamiliar world – a constant companion through hospital admissions, procedures and treatment. He sits beside children when they’re scared, comes along to appointments and is there to celebrate the moments that matter.
But Elliot has grown to become much more than a soft toy. He is now an important part of the support we provide to children and families facing childhood cancer.
Hospital staff can use Elliot to help explain procedures to children before they happen. If a child needs surgery, Elliot might even come out of theatre wearing the same bandages, helping make something frightening feel a little less scary.
And when children find it difficult to talk to an adult about how they're feeling, Elliot is someone they can turn to.
Through Letters to Elliot, children and their siblings can share their thoughts, feelings and worries with their trusted friend. And Elliot writes back.
Because sometimes, it can be easier to tell a friend.
Elliot is there for the whole family
A childhood cancer diagnosis affects the whole family, not just the child.
That’s why the Elliot Program includes support for siblings too. Brothers and sisters receive their own resources to help them understand what is happening, recognise and express their feelings, and find ways to cope with the changes cancer can bring.
Elliot also helps families celebrate the moments that shouldn't be forgotten.
Every child receives a birthday card, helping them feel remembered and celebrated even when treatment or hospital stays are part of their special day.
Elliot is there for the highs, the lows and all the milestones in between.
Help Elliot be there for the next child
Every child referred to the Childhood Cancer Association deserves to have an Elliot by their side.
Your donation can help us continue the Elliot Program and provide children and their siblings with comfort and support when they need it most.
Your gift can make a difference
$50 – Gift an Elliot to a child with cancer and a book for siblings
$250 – Help us fund the 'Letters to Elliot' Program
$500 – Support children with the comprehensive Elliot Program.
Every donation, whatever the amount, helps Elliot be there when a child needs him most.
Will you help Elliot be there for the next child?
Donate to the Elliot Program today
Because sometimes, a friend who is always there can make all the difference.
