Keen to make difference to cancer
BOWLING, golfing, running, quitting, going blue or even cooking are just a few of the ways people can support Cancer Council Queensland through its new I Can for Cancer campaign.
Peachester resident Margarita Priori-Smith has put her own spin on fundraising by combining her love of fine jewellery with her passion for the fight against cancer.
Margarita is holding a jewellery auction and lunch event on Sunday, August 19, at Peachester Hall and is encouraging locals to join in on the fun and pick up some bargains.
Three pieces of jewellery to the value of $4000 will also be raffled off on the day.
Margarita said there was no better excuse to treat yourself to a little bit of sparkle while raising vital funds for Cancer Council Queensland.
"There will be a beautiful selection of liquidated, estate, antique and vintage jewellery up for auction," she said.
"And a portion of the proceeds from the auction will fund CCQ's vital work in cancer research and support."
Margarita has been volunteering and fundraising for Cancer Council Queensland since she was diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in 2008.
"I underwent three lots of surgery and treatment over 18 months and my cancer experience has really inspired me to give back to my community for the help I received during such a difficult time," she said.
"When I was first diagnosed all I wanted to do was talk to someone who had been through the same thing, but it was just so hard to find.
"CCQ has a wonderful Cancer Connect program that can provide that service and I want to do whatever I can to support it.
"Being able to talk with someone who has been through a similar experience is really valuable.
"I knew what to expect in hospital and it made the whole thing less daunting - now I volunteer for the service and help others through their cancer journey."
Margarita recently pledged to do anything she could to make a difference in the fight against cancer by becoming a Cancer Council Queensland I Can for Cancer champion.
Margarita said she hoped locals would support the cause.
"The importance of the work that Cancer Council and its supporters carry out is unfortunately only really appreciated when a tragedy hits close to home," she said.
"I know the importance of fundraising for cancer research and support, and I hope that I can get a nice crowd at my event."
Entry is $12, which includes a hot lunch donated by Peachester QCWA and will include vegetarian and gluten free options.
Bookings are essential and 100% of the proceeds from the door will go to Cancer Council Queensland.
Margarita said she hoped to raise more than $500 on the day.
To book call 54949192 or email pcja2012@hotmail.com.
Cancer Council Queensland regional fundraising co-ordinator Jodi Durkin said anyone could become an I Can champion, just like Margarita, simply by adding a fundraising element to their favourite activities and doing what they can, whenever they can.
"Sadly, one in two Queenslanders will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, and a cancer diagnosis of a friend or loved one leaves many of us asking 'What can I do to help?'," Ms Durkin said.
"I Can for Cancer gives people an opportunity to raise funds to help support all Queenslanders affected by this devastating disease and help us to beat cancer.
"So what can you do for cancer? No matter how big or small, you can help create hope for a cancer free future.
"If you have a hobby, if you want to learn a new skill or if you just want to make something you do every day count, do what makes you happy and pledge 'I Can for Cancer', because together we can achieve a cancer-free future."
You can make a difference by registering online at icanforcancer.org.au or call 1300656585.
