Wendy Connell is not alone in finding the cancer journey a tough battle. And it’s not only the health and emotional challenges, but also the financial cost that can be challenging.
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Can Assist helps meet the extensive costs which can be associated with a cancer fight, and one of its major fundraisers is an annual High Tea.
Pictured are Mrs Connell (right) and Bianca Armytage who are promoting the event.
Local cancer sufferer Wendy Connell is urging the local community to support this year’s Can Assist Deniliquin High Tea event.
Mrs Connell, who was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, has been supported by the local charity over the past year.
Can Assist Deniliquin provides practical support and financial assistance to anyone in the local community affected by cancer.
Since starting in January 2017, Can Assist Deniliquin has helped 39 people by easing some of the financial burden they face.
This helps them access the same opportunities and choices in cancer treatment that people who live in cities take for granted.
‘‘I was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago,’’ Mrs Connell said.
‘‘Unfortunately it has metasized to my bones.
‘‘Living with this disease has severely limited my ability to lead a normal life.
‘‘The cost of having a debilitating illness is not obvious at first.
‘‘I can no longer take public transport so my husband has to take time off work to drive me to Bendigo.
‘‘This often involves overnight stays, which has placed a considerable strain on the family finances.’’
About 12 months ago Mrs Connell turned to Can Assist for some help, a service in which she is grateful for.
‘‘I have been fortunate to be a recipient of assistance from Deni Can Assist,’’ she said.
‘‘Privacy is a strong consideration and confidentiality is assured for those who may not want people to know they need assistance.
‘‘Perhaps the greatest joy I have is knowing there are people in the community who selflessly give their time and skills to help others in their time of need.’’
One way to help support Can Assist is its popular High Tea fundraiser on March 23.
This year’s fundraiser will bring something new with an offer for eight people the chance to have the inaugural VIP experience.
The VIP experience for the event — held at the Crossing Café on Saturday, March 23 — includes early entry with a glass of wine and a platter, a bottle of wine for the table and party favours.
The table will be dressed with linen and decorations and adorned with flowers.
The VIP table will be auctioned online at www.myminiauction.com/canassistdeni with bidding starting at $392 ($49 a head), and will run until 8pm on Thursday, February 28.
Can Assist Deniliquin president Kellie Crossley said the decision to have a VIP table for the event was made at a recent meeting.
‘‘Due to the overwhelming response to the High Tea tickets in 2018, we thought it would be a fabulous idea to auction a VIP table,’’ she said.
‘‘Not only does this raise money for Can Assist Deniliquin, but it guarantees eight lucky people tickets to our the high tea, champagne and many other beautiful touches on their table.
‘‘Last year’s event sold in a few days and due to early interest via social media we are anticipating and hoping this year’s event will be the same.
‘‘Our aim is for another sell out.
‘‘A cancer diagnosis is a difficult time and sometimes you just need a little help to keep your life on track.
‘‘It might be fuel vouchers to help with the cost of travelling for treatment or help with accommodation costs, utility bills or out of pocket expenses.
‘‘Can Assist Deniliquin relies on donations and fundraising within the community to be able to continue supporting people.
‘‘Community members are able to help by holding a fundraising event on Can Assist’s behalf, having a donation box in your office or staff room, or sponsor an event.’’
This year Can Assist will sell half the tickets online at www.ticketebo.com.au/hightea2019, and the other half at their Cressy St Cake Stall from 9am on Friday, March 1.
After 12 noon on the same day, tickets will also be available from Deniliquin Party Hire.
Tickets are $49 per person and are often sold out within the first 48 hours of sale due to limited numbers and event popularity.
Each ticket will get you an afternoon of delicious food with ticket proceeds going towards the charity.
All funds raised will stay within the Deniliquin branch to directly help cancer patients in our local community.
Since forming in 2017 Can Assist has given out a total of $47,520.96 to support those with cancer.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact Bianca Armytage on 0418453677.