Central Coast teenager Kyle West has been announced as a finalist in this year’s Dare to Dream Scholarship, a joint venture between Coles and National Charity Redkite which provides financial support to young Australians facing childhood cancer.
Diagnosed with leukaemia at just one year old, Kyle was at the time one of the youngest patients ever treated at Westmead Children’s Hospital.
Now 17, he still feels the impact of the treatments both physically and mentally but is working towards becoming an electrician, just like his dad and grandfather before him.
Since 2013, Coles has raised more than $850,000 towards the Dare to Dream Scholarship – a joint venture with Redkite that has helped young Australians experiencing childhood cancer to chase their dreams beyond treatment.
Each year Redkite provides young Australians diagnosed with cancer a financial boost to help them achieve their future goals and aspirations.
Kyle was one of 10 finalists in 2024 where applicants revealed aspirations for careers in healthcare, music, photography, science, sport and fitness.
Some also had lifestyle goals, such as educational tutoring, mental wellbeing and having access to new technology to facilitate learning.
Redkite CEO Monique Keighery said when children received a cancer diagnosis their dreams and aspirations were often put on hold as they faced the biggest challenge of their lives.
“This is why the Redkite and Coles Dare to Dream Scholarship is so pivotal in helping realise that their dreams can still be achieved,” she said.
“The scholarship supports young cancer patients and survivors who have faced significant disruptions to their childhood and education.
“Many have reluctantly delayed their dreams and aspirations due to illness and treatment and have been forced to reconsider their life plans and what might be possible in the future.
“This is why the ongoing support from Coles is so important.”
Coles General Manager Corporate and Indigenous Affairs Sally Fielke, who was on the panel of judges for the scholarship, said Coles was proud of its longstanding partnership with Redkite to support young Australians affected by childhood cancer.
“Coles is proud to support the Dare to Dream Scholarship program in partnership with Redkite for the 12th year in a row,” she said.
“The quality of applicants continues to inspire the panel each year and this year was no different.
“We’re delighted to award 10 worthy young Aussies with a scholarship and to provide them with the motivation to stay focused on their dreams.”