FEDERAL member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch has spoken of local mum Kim Jenkins’ “determination and spirit” in the Parliament today, as the Renovation Rescue prepares to wind up with a final ‘Thank You’ event for supporters.
Mr Entsch highlighted Kim’s journey since he first met her in 2011, when she was diagnosed with a rare spider-web-like tumour in her brain.
“During this extremely stressful time, I always found her to be a courageous and determined woman, and a loving and attentive wife and mother,” he said.
“Unfortunately, in March this year, I received a very distressing phone call. Kim told me that the tumour had come back and it was inoperable. She asked if I could help out with a very special challenge.”
Mr Entsch paid tribute to the Renovation Rescue Project Committee made up of local businesswoman and “absolute dynamo” Kath Kinneally, builder Ron Easterbrook from East Build Designer Homes and Rob Arthur from Chris Van Dyke Building Designers.
He describe how he and the Committee called on the community for donations of everything possible, from building materials and people with the necessary skill sets, to furnishings, landscaping services, plans and approvals, prizes and publicity.
“We know how generous the Cairns community can be: I cannot name every one of the 70-odd individuals and organisations who assisted but we have been humbled by the amazing donations that have come through,” Mr Entsch told Parliament.
“We cannot thank them enough.”
Mr Entsch said the modest extension to the family home was now basically completed, with an extra two bedrooms, a new bathroom and space for Kim’s mum Maree.
“This will certainly provide Kim with great peace of mind,” he said.
To conclude the renovation rescue, Mr Entsch and the Committee are inviting everyone who has supported the project in any way to a Thank You sausage sizzle on Saturday, 30 November, from 12pm-2pm at the northern end BBQ area, Trinity Beach Esplanade, hosted by the Cairns North Rotary Club.
“There will be a few words from the committee and Kim’s family and an opportunity to meet people and businesses that have helped with the project,” Mr Entsch explained. “Businesses are welcome to bring along some signage we support those who support us.”
Mr Entsch ended by saying that while Kim’s brain tumour has had a profound impact on her, he was full of admiration for her determination and spirit.
“Kim, stay strong. We are thinking of you. We love you. You are in our hearts and you are in our prayers.”