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Around 200 people have donned their finest pink and dug deep for the annual Go Pink luncheon.
LIONS@Springwood played host to the event which raised almost $100,000 – one of the largest Mater Foundation fundraisers held for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Money raised will be put towards funding the Early Breast Cancer Care Coordinator role at the Mater Cancer Care Centre at South Brisbane, a position created to help women with breast cancer navigate the difficult initial phases of receiving a diagnosis.
Esther White, whose role as Early Breast Cancer Care Coordinator is funded by the Go Pink luncheon fundraising, said her role is to help patients and their families navigate a situation they likely have never had experience with.
“I work with a lot of our specialist teams, and I’m really that constant support person,” Ms White said.
“Not every patient has the same needs, it’s often a bit of a journey… it really transitions through different stages.”
Ms White said knowing your breasts and having a strong relationship with your GP are important ways to keep track of your health.
“If you feel like something is wrong, we encourage you to reach out,” Ms White said.
“If you’re not sure, ask the question – nothing is embarrassing.
One in four Queensland women with breast cancer will receive treatment at Mater.
The “At the Ballet” themed Go Pink lunch is just one of many Mater Foundation events being held to raise money for those impacted by the disease this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“It’s so exciting to see our community come together on behalf of our patients and their families,” Ms White said.
“Our patients don’t feel alone if they see events like this and see the community supporting them.
“The generosity you extend goes to the people that need it most, and the ripple effect is felt through our communities.”
One in seven women and around one in 600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said it’s not too late to host your own Breasties Brunch and show your support.
“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re hoping to raise vital funds to support the extraordinary work of all our Breast Care Clinicians around Queensland and everything they do in helping those impacted by breast cancer,” Mr Thomas said.
“It’s as simple as registering and getting together to raise funds with family, friends or colleagues.”
“I’d like to thank the Brisbane Lions and the team at LIONS@Springwood for hosting a fantastic event and being an outstanding partner in fundraising for such an important cause.”
Find out how you can host your own Breasties Brunch at fundraise.mater.org.au/breastiesbrunch.
