It's a scenario no-one would ever want to face - caring for a young family member living with cancer at Christmas.
But that's exactly what many Australian families face this festive season.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and partner Jodie Haydon met with families impacted by childhood cancer at Kirribilli House in Sydney on Saturday.
Ms Haydon, who recently joined Redkite as an ambassador for the national childhood cancer charity, welcomed guests to their home to mark the launch of its annual Christmas appeal.
The campaign will raise funds and provide critical support for families impacted by childhood cancer.
The sky may have been overcast but spirits remained high.
Toto, the prime minister's dog, was the star attraction with children clamouring to pat the fluffy pooch.
Face painting was also on the agenda as others lined up for a colourful decorative display.
In describing her decision to join the charity as its ambassador in July, Ms Haydon said she was committed to making a real difference in the lives of families affected by childhood cancer.
"I know from personal experience the incredible difference Redkite makes in the lives of families facing childhood cancer," she said at the announcement.
"They are there from day one at the most devastating and overwhelming time imaginable."