IT was a night of celebration for breast cancer survivors in the region on Friday as the community came together to support the Mount Gambier Breast Cancer Awareness Group’s annual fundraiser.
Decorated in black and pink to fit with this year’s Friday the 13th theme, the Commodore on the Park was filled with over 200 women, all there to support those affected by breast cancer.
Raising over $10,000 for the group’s main project – the Helping Handbags – the event was deemed a major success by all involved.
“We have received lots of positive feedback since Friday night and will definitely be back again next year,” committee member Karen Petersen said.
“Some breast cancer survivors have come forward thanking the community for their support and help in receiving one of the handbags.
“They are so happy to see that funds raised stay local and help support people in the region.”
The Helping Handbags, handed out by South East McGrath breast care nurse Margie Atwell to regional patients, contain $500 worth of vouchers for essential items and services such as petrol and groceries.
Since 2014, over 150 handbags have been distributed to the community to help them ease the financial pressure involved with receiving treatment.
Funds raised will also go towards the group’s second major project which will involve the purchase of a SOZO Thrive machine – to help those living with lymphoedema – a common side effect of breast cancer surgery.
With auctions, raffle prizes, a fashion parade, food and even pink champagne, Ms Petersen said the event would not be possible without local business support.
“We have had lots of good comments on how good the room looked with many breast cancer survivors happy to be able to celebrate the occasion with family and friends,” she said.
“Some ladies make it an annual event in their calendar and we are so grateful for their continued support.”
