Hand in Hand extends reach with $30,000 grant

11 August 2014

Hand in Hand extends reach with $30,000 grant

• Free manicure and pedicure therapy service for women living with cancer awarded 10th Jetstar Flying Start Programme grant
• Grant will extend service to patients around the country and revamp facilities
• Auckland founder inspired by her own cancer journey and desire to help others feel better

Auckland-based women’s health charity Hand in Hand was announced today as the 10th recipient of the Jetstar Flying Start Programme grant, receiving $15,000 cash and $15,000 in travel, enabling the speciality nail and hand therapy service to extend its operations to potentially hundreds more Kiwi women.

Hand in Hand gives women living with cancer a safe and private environment to enjoy a manicure and pedicure using organic products which provide therapy to skin and nails and painful skin problems experienced during treatment.

The organisation was formed in June 2013 when Hand in Hand founder, Nicola Upson, a qualified nail technician, was recovering from her own personal diagnosis and treatment for cancer.

“During this very challenging time, I discovered there was a lack of free services available to women living with cancer to help lift the spirit and soul. It has been medically proven that people with a positive attitude get through the treatment better than those who are negative in thoughts. It can be difficult to manage pain during cancer treatment but you can manage your suffering.”

“The Flying Start grant is a dream come true. It gives Hand in Hand a much needed cash boost to revamp the studio, including the purchase of a spa pedicure chair, supplies such as towels, tools, candles, and organic body care products. We’re going to use the flight component to offer women living with cancer outside of Auckland the opportunity to fly to the city for a day of pampering.”

Grant Kerr, Head of Jetstar New Zealand, said the positive impact of Hand in Hand’s offering is of tremendous importance, not only to the women living with cancer but also families and wider support networks.

“We all know the devastating effect cancer has on individuals and their families. Hand in Hand gives women living with cancer the opportunity to have an hour or two to enjoy some special care. The impact this has on them and their families is truly immeasurable. Hand in Hand is a unique and valuable offering that is currently only available to women living in the Auckland region. With the help of the Jetstar Flying Start grant the service can be extended to more women in more places.”

Jetstar Flying Start Programme judge and rugby league legend Steve Price was won over by the emotional and physical value Hand in Hand’s service gives to women.

“My mum’s best friend lost her battle with cancer and all the little things that Hand in Hand offers makes a big difference during a very tough time. So many of us are touched by this disease and the Flying Start grant gives Hand in Hand a boost to provide an improved service to women around New Zealand.”

The Jetstar Flying Start Programme has awarded $300,000 in travel and cash to ten New Zealand not-for-profit organisations since early 2012. Applications for the next grant close at 5.00pm 30 September 2014. Any New Zealand based not-for-profit community group or organisation in need of a Flying Start is encouraged to apply. Full application details and conditions can be found at www.jetstar.com.

ENDS

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