Tradies deliver a bathroom blitz
by Jack Morgan
A band of local trades and businesses have come together to build a bathroom for a family in need.
The new bathroom, built with donated time and materials, will help the Dorling family after youngest brother Tyler was diagnosed with leukemia.
Interior designer Megan Metcalfe planned the new bathroom to be more accessible, and organised local businesses to take part in the renovation.
“It will be much more accessible, it’ll be a shower that he can get in and out of a lot easier and in a wheelchair if need be, much more space around the toilet and access for him to use the vanity,” she said.
A GoFundMe page titled “Tyler and his fight against Leukaemia” was set up for the Warragul family early last year, and has raised more than $10,000 so far. But none of the funds were used for the bathroom, instead relying on the goodwill of local builders, trades, and suppliers.
The fundraising page details a long road to recovery that could take up to three years, while requiring parents Tammy and Mark to take time off work to care for Tyler.
It’s hoped the bathroom will make life easier for Tyler, who has been in and out of hospital.
“So he can feel like when he comes home he can get a bit of independence back,” Metcalfe said.
Contributors included a long list of local trades contractors and businesses who completed the project in time for Christmas.
Since starting her business Renovation Rescue, Metcalfe has always wanted to work on a project that gives back to the community.
“But how do you pick the right family, how do you pick the right person, when does the right time come along, and then asking other people to donate their time is another thing?” Metcalfe said.
Upon hearing about Tyler Dorling’s diagnosis,
the designer asked other businesses she had previously worked with to contribute, and found they were more than happy to provide their services.
“It just proves to me what a great bunch of guys I work with, and suppliers that we have,” she said.
The Dorling family wished to acknowledge everyone who put their time and effort into the project and highlighted the importance of giving blood.
Tyler has needed blood transfusions while undergoing treatment, which have been in short supply at stages throughout the pandemic.
A good way to support the battle against blood cancer is by donating blood.