A Mandurah mother whose stillborn son's ashes were stolen in a burglary has received an outpouring of support from people offering up donations, gifts and even a $5000 reward.
Single mother Kelly Cooke was left devastated when a box in her house containing her son Anthony's ashes - as well as a number of keepsakes - was taken when thieves ransacked her house in Dudley Park.
Food, clothing, children's toys, a television and even all the light bulbs were swiped from the house, but Ms Cooke said the only thing she cared about was that the ashes were returned.
Her story was featured on Radio 6PR, prompting a flood of callers offering to lend their support to the mother-of-two.
Speaking on Adam Shand's Drive show, caller Terri, in Kalamunda, got the ball rolling.
"Kelly's story really touched my heart and I would like to kick off with $100 donation to help her out," she said.
"And I just plead to the mongrels that broke into her house, to return Anthony home. That's where he belongs."
Vivienne, in Wangara, offered to donate new bedding to her young children, from her store in the Wanneroo markets, Pick Your Favourite, adding "I feel for her because my daughter is a single mum with four daughters and I know how hard it can be."
One caller, who did not want to go on air, even offered a $5000 reward if the ashes were returned.
Following the unbelievable response from listeners Ms Cooke called in to thank those who offered up support.
"I'm overwhelmed, I didn't expect to get this kind of reposnse. It means a lot and just shows what a great community we have here," she said.
"Thank you so much."
Ms Cooke had earlier called the show in a desperate plea to the intruders to return the ashes – no questions asked.
"I can't really understand what they get out of it. I'm just speechless, I'm dumbfounded. I'm just at a loss I guess," she said.
"It's a real nauseous feeling. It makes me feel like I've failed him and lost him again. It just brings back a terrible feeling and I'm going out of my mind wondering what people are doing to his stuff.
"It's priceless junk to everyone else, but to me and my family it's worth more than anything I own.
"I'm not worried about the other stuff that has been taken, it can all be replaced, clothes and light bulbs and all that crap.
"It's the box, just bring the box back no questions asked, I won't go to the police, I won't ask any questions, leave at the front door or take it to Vinnie's, I'll leave it at that."
Anyone with information on the break in is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Local police are investigating.
