SURVIVAL was the only thought Evelyn Heard’s parents had for her when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour in April, 2012.

It was a fear that only subsided after seven months of first-class treatment in Melbourne, that allowed Evelyn to go back to school at Holy Spirit Primary School, Lavington, last year after basically missing out on her first year.

But, of course, there is fallout from such traumatic episodes and not the least of was could she catch up on her school work?

Or would she have to repeat a year?

It was at Ronald McDonald House, where her parents found the answer to that in the form of a learning program that provides tutoring for an hour a week for 40 weeks for kids who have had a serious illness.

It has worked so well for Evelyn, 8, that on Friday she graduated with flying colours.

Evelyn’s mother Glynis, said she had found out about the learning program when staying at Ronald McDonald House.

“The house has been a saviour for us,” she said.

“It allowed us to stay together as a family and the learning program has been a bonus.”

Mrs Heard said the one-on-one assistance of a tutor had ensured Evelyn had caught up with her peer group.

“When she first went back to school, she was skinny and frail and had no hair,” Mrs Heard said.

“Her friends protected her and supported her and Holy Spirit has been fantastic.”

Evelyn’s tutor, Julie King, said she had visited the school weekly and had been amazed with the results.

“This graduation recognises her hard work,” she said.

“I really have seen the improvements and results.

“She was a delight and an absolute pleasure to work with.”

Mrs Heard said Evelyn’s confidence had skyrocketed.

“She wouldn’t talk to the doctors or nurses in Melbourne but now she will get up and talk in front of the entire class.”