The St Thomas More Primary School pupil was treated for a tumour on her temple in May last year.

After two operations, Jess visited the hospital each week for radiotherapy, before beginning 42 weeks of chemotherapy.

This means weekly visits to the hospital, where she can spend up to two hours in the clinic and more time in the day oncology centre.

Blood samples are also taken each week to check her haemoglobin and white blood cell count.

Despite this, Jess remains a fun-loving girl with a love for bandanas - 13 of them.

"Down at the hospital, sometimes we get to do fun stuff, like cook things and play games," she said.

Her mother Cheree said the hospital had fabulous staff, health educators, music and art therapy, and it offered a great place for sick kids.

Jess will be among the patients who will benefit from this year's Good Friday Appeal on April 2. Last year's appeal raised nearly $13.9 million to buy medical equipment and fund research.

Mrs Cosgriff said she did not know where her family would be without the Royal Children's Hospital, with no oncology services for children in Ballarat.

"I don't think people realise that," she said.

"But The Royal Children's has been our second home for months."

To donate to this year's appeal, call 9292 166 or visit www.goodfridayappeal.com.au.