‘In denial’: Fundraiser launched after Coffs family dealt devastating blow amid lockdown

They spent years living in a caravan, working hard to save enough to finally buy their dream family home. But just two weeks later, the Moir family was rocked by a shocking diagnosis.

Friends and family are rallying behind the Moir family.

With three kids in tow, Justine and Phil Moir had spent years living on the road in a caravan when they fell in love with the Coffs Coast.

Phil worked online while Justine ran a house-sitting business, and after working hard to save money, they finally managed to scrape enough together for a deposit.

They found the perfect renovation project in Toormina to serve as their future dream family home.

But just two weeks after receiving the keys, the family was rocked by the news Justine had advanced ovarian cancer.

“We’re all in a bit of denial I think. Because of the lockdown I can’t travel to be with her. She has no direct family there to support her,” Justine’s sister Mel Craven said.

Separated by border restrictions, Ms Craven who lives in Tasmania has launched a fundraiser for the young family in a bid to help her “baby sister” as she begins chemotherapy amid the lockdown.

Ms Craven said they were unable to live in their new home as it needed extensive work, with the couple having planned to undertake renovations over the coming months as they stayed in the caravan.

A fundraiser has been set up for Justine Moir, who has received a devastating diagnosis amid the lockdown.

But with Justine’s diagnosis, she is not able to work to help fund the renovations. Husband Phil is desperately trying to get the home organised so that his wife isn’t forced to grapple with the illness while living in a caravan.

In just five days, Ms Craven’s fundraiser has amassed over $14,000 in donations.

“They’re very, very grateful. They did not expect that type of response,” Ms Craven said.

“We’re just hoping to raise funds to get the house set up so she’s got a space to focus on healing, and also so that her daughters can continue homeschooling and not be worried about the chaos of renovating.”

The funds raised will go towards the renovations as well as medical treatment.

Ms Craven is also hoping to get in touch with local tradies including electricians as the family is new to the town and don’t have many contacts.

“She’s just had her first chemotherapy session so I guess it’s the beginning of a difficult journey. Everyone is staying positive and praying for miracles.”