A SEA of glowing light transformed the Cave Gardens on Friday as around 200 people raised blue, white and gold lanterns at the annual Light the Night event.
The Leukaemia Foundation’s major annual fundraiser this year aimed to raise $2m nationwide to fund research to help beat blood cancer.
Attendees braved cold and windy weather as they raised lanterns to pay tribute to those battling blood cancer and to remember loved ones lost to the disease.
Young talent Ellyana Sims and duo Ben Hood and Tamara Seeley performed to open proceedings before the crowd heard from this year’s blue, white and gold lantern ambassadors.
Blue lantern ambassador Rosie Manser said her husband Terry was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukaemia in October 2015.
“To say we were in shock was an understatement – he had not been unwell at all,” Ms Manser said.
“We were visiting our two sons in Adelaide and after he was diagnosed he started chemotherapy immediately.
“We had planned to be away for a weekend and did not return home again for six weeks.”
Mr Manser underwent six months of treatment with short breaks between cycles, while Ms Manser stayed at Adelaide’s leukaemia lodge.
“10 to 15 years ago outcomes for this type of leukaemia were not so good, thankfully due to advancements in treatment today there is an 85pc to 90pc remission rate,” Ms Manser said.
“Terry is now in remission and we are so grateful for support from family, friends and the Leukaemia Foundation.
“Providing families with an amazing facility with caring staff and all for no cost is unbelievable.
“Nights like this are so important to raise awareness and raise funds for vital research.”
White lantern ambassador Melena Roughana was diagnosed with non-hodgkin’s lymphoma around 18 months ago.
She underwent just over 100 hours of chemotherapy.
“I was hooked up to chemo day and night with only 15 minutes off each day to have a shower,” Ms Roughana said.
“My life was constant bone marrow treatments, scans and biopsies and all I wanted to do was take care of my two young children.
“Four and a half months later I was told I was in complete remission.
“Being diagnosed was the most terrifying moment of my life, but instantly there was kindness and love everywhere and so many people that just wanted to help.”
Ms Roughana praised the Leukaemia Foundation for its ongoing support.
Gold lantern ambassador Tammy Flier lost her mother-in-law Sharyn to blood cancer.
“She was a massive supporter of the foundation and when she was undergoing treatment the leukaemia lodge was a fantastic resource,” she said.
“The foundation not only provide accommodation, everything you might have to worry about is taken care of.
“I know she would be rapt with the number of people here and want to say thank you – every donation helps to find a cure.”
