General News
19 October, 2022
Cancer survivor draws fundraising success
THE community has rallied around cancer survivor Deb Etherton’s efforts to raise funds this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
THE community has rallied around cancer survivor Deb Etherton’s efforts to raise funds this Breast CancerAwareness Month.
More than 50 locals packed the Mortlake Senior Citizens Hall on Tuesday, awash witha sea of pink, raising $545 in support ofthe cause.
A slew of raffle prizes were donated by local businesses, in addition to an information session presented by South West Healthcare on breast cancer and how to monitor forpotential symptoms.
Funds raised from the event will go to Breast Cancer Network Australia, a not-for-profit charity which supports Australians who have been impacted by breast cancer.
Event organiser Deb Etherton said thesupport from the community had been overwhelming.
“In a small town, to see this many women fill in to the Senior Citizens Hall is just amazing,” she said.
“The support they have given is beyond words, and this community has embraced and showed this support in many ways.
“Raising funds not only supports research but it supports all facets of care including nutrition, alternative treatments, wellbeing, respite away from home with family and the great need for more nurses in regional Victoria.
“It shows family isn’t just family; it’s who you want to be in your life.”
Ms Etherton thanked those who had come along on the day, purchased raffle tickets at markets, or donated to shaker tins which had been placed in shops around town.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart,“ she said.
"And check your breasts.”
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women.
In 2022, it is predicted more than 20,000 women and 200 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer; an average of 57 peopleeach day.
While breast cancer incidence is increasing as detection and awareness raise, mortality rates are decreasing as treatment and early detection methods improve.
Ms Etherton encouraged all affected by the disease to fight, live and find acceptance within themselves.
“You don’t have to just accept defeat with your diagnosis,” she said.
“Embrace it, let your light shine from within, fight it, and always know there’s helpout there.”
Ms Etherton said she felt a sense of empowerment knowing the funds raised would support those undertaking the same battle she has fought.
She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011, and has continued her fight with a positive attitude since.
“This has given me focus,” Ms Etherton said.
“And I’ll be here again fighting next year.”