Public generosity buys family time together

Public generosity buys family Christmas together

A family facing unimaginable loss this Christmas has been given reason to smile thanks to the generosity of others.

Sam McNeill, 17, and her brother Tim have both been presented with the surprise gift of a bulldog puppy as they both battle the final stages of terminal cancer.

For Sam, every moment is precious, and meeting nine-week-old bulldog pup Pixie is one she will never forget.

After battling brain cancer for 11 years, doctors predict Sam has just five weeks to live.

Her brother Tim also faces a life cut short because of cancer.

Their mum Lee White said Pixie would lift her kids’ hopes for the festive season.

“It looked pretty dull but now that she’s here I think the kids have got something to look forward to,” she said.

When broadcaster Neil Mitchell heard of their plight, Melbourne dug deep.

In addition to Pixie, enough money has been donated to allow the family to take the next month off work for what could be their last Christmas together.

“I think this Christmas will be a very special one for all,” Lee said.