Benalla community rallies for cancer support at Shannon’s Biggest Morning Tea

The fundraiser will be held in the idyllic setting of Moira House, at 1 Benalla St.

Shannon is hoping that by the time it starts she will have already hit her target of $3000, and any extra raised on the day will see that figure smashed.

She said she would love the Benalla community’s help and support to raise as much money as possible for a charity that will continue to affect and support many people and families.

“Two years ago, I hosted my second morning tea with a childhood friend, Tahlia,” Shannon said.

“Her mum had just been diagnosed with breast cancer, so I said, let’s do it together.

“I didn’t realise at the time, but two years ago, my dad was being diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer.

“My dad’s journey to being diagnosed was terrifying for not only him, but also my family.

“The unknown created an endless list of unanswered questions and scenarios for us all, which was very overwhelming.

“With the knowledge, confidence and ongoing support from his ‘master mind’ team of oncologists, urologists and the incredible assistance of the cancer support nurses — all of our questions and uncertainty were put to ease without any judgment.

“This would not have been possible, if it wasn’t for the Cancer Council.

“The Cancer Council foundation is so close to my heart.

“Not only because of my personal experiences of losing a number of family members and loving friends to this dreadful disease, but also working in our local community and witnessing so many wonderful people be affected by cancer in many ways.”

One in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

With the help of community contribution, the Cancer Council can help people and their families from the beginning of the diagnosis, through to treatment, transport and survivorship.

Cancer Council knows that coping with cancer is challenging, which is why it delivers a comprehensive range of support services for all people affected by cancer across every state and territory.

Shannon’s Biggest Morning Tea will take place on Monday, May 25 from 10am to noon, but she assures attendees that if any want to hang around a bit longer, they will be welcome.

“It’s $5 entry, which is for all you can eat and drink,” she said.

“I’m doing a BYO cup or mug. This is because two years ago, we had 150 mugs, and still ran out.

“Everyone who brings a cup or mug will go into a draw to win a meat raffle, from Donohue’s Quality Meats.”

There will be another raffle on the day to win a range of prizes donated by local businesses.

Tickets are $2 or three for $5. You can buy them on the day, and in the meantime they are available from Westside Wellness (22 Bridge St West), Hair Manor (50 Church St), or the Moira Bowls Club (1 Benalla St).

You have to be over 18 to buy a raffle ticket, as some of the prizes contain alcohol.

Shannon said there was a great range of raffle prizes, and as each ticket was drawn, the winner could choose which prize they wanted.

“I also have a jar of freckles, and it’s $2 a guess of how many are in there,” she said.

People can also donate online in advance by visiting biggestmorningtea.com.au/fundraisers/biggestmorningteacomaushangoss25/biggest-morning-tea-vic/

Shannon is already more than halfway to her fundraising goal, with donations currently sitting on $1926 (as of the morning of Tuesday, May 20).

Donate now, or pop along to the morning tea to show your support for this important cause. Donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

“I’m so excited every time I get a donation,” Shannon said.

“It’s just amazing how generous people are.

“Let’s all band together to do our bit and raise as much as we can to help put a stop to this awful disease.”