Pink October has been a busy month, with some special events in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW. About 70 people attended a wonderful Pink Morning tea held at the Salvation Army Hall, Coffs Harbour on Tuesday, 13/10/2015. Hosted by Teina Gough, a local breast cancer survivor, and her team of helpers, the event included a fun Fashion Parade, a creative Cupcake competition and a BCNA information stall. Jim Bennington, from Urunga, entertained us with his joyful singing and guitar music. Lots of laughter and liveliness!
A beautiful devotional message was presented by Salvation Army Major Julia Metcher with her pretty, pink umbrella and the P.I.N.K. themes of Protection, Inspiration, Networks and Knowledge. A Mini-Field of Pink Ladies was celebrated on a pink carpet as we quietly reflected and remembered people affected by breast cancer. It was a comforting and supportive time for survivors, families and friends.
A similar Morning tea was held in Woolgoolga on Monday, 26/10/2015.
Well done to Teina and her team! Many thanks to everyone who attended, as well as local businesses and people who donated items for the craft stall and Lucky Door surprises.
A Consumer Forum called ‘Into the Open – a Breast Cancer Update’ was held on Saturday, 17/10/15 in Coffs Harbour. It was organised by our local Breast Cancer nurse, Lee Millard-Newton, in collaboration with the Cancer Council. Our local BCNA group of Breast Cancer Buddies provided a display of information and a warm welcome to everyone.
We learnt more about current breast cancer research programs, practical services for people affected by breast cancer and strategies/tools to handle issues of relationships, survivorship and sexuality/intimacy (during diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment). Guest speakers included Dr Amanda Horden (leading expert in sexuality and cancer care, from Melbourne), Verity Hodgkinson (Cancer Research at Cancer Council NSW), Annie Miller (Practical Support at Cancer Council NSW) and Suzanne Mc Carty (local yoga teacher). Many thanks to Lee and her team for caring and sharing so much with us.
Pictured below – Di with Joan, our Fashion Parade winner, walking the Pink Carpet and sprinkling Pink magic with her wand! Joan at 90+years is an inspiration for all of us.
