Biggest Morning Tea a success

RESIDENTS gathered in Timboon and District Healthcare Service’s (TDHS) Community Health Room last Thursday to hold a Biggest Morning Tea, raising vital funds for cancer research.

Making a difference: Community members from across Timboon and surrounds gathered at Timboon and District Healthcare Service to take part in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.

Hosted jointly by TDHS and Lesley Togni, the day, which ran from 10am-12noon on Thursday, May 28, was held to raise money for the Cancer Council.

TDHS health promotion officer Christie Berry said the day raised approximately $2000 for the cause, which organisers were extremely proud of.

“The morning welcomed approximately 45–50 attendees, with everyone generously bringing along a plate to share while enjoying a cuppa, conversation and connection,” she said.

The day included four guest speakers who spoke of their journeys in being involved with cancer and how cancer had touched their lives.

“We were honoured to hear from four incredibly brave guest speakers who shared their personal cancer journeys and experiences,” Ms Berry said.

“Cheryl Miller spoke about her journey as a carer and mother supporting her daughter through melanoma.

“Glenda Walker shared the emotional and challenging road her family has faced since her husband’s cancer diagnosis last year.

“Janet Goodall spoke openly about battling breast cancer twice while raising her children.

“Rhianon Perry, one of our own TDHS staff members, courageously shared her recent diagnosis of stage three bowel cancer and her current treatment journey.”

Ms Berry said it was a heartfelt day of emotion and connection.

“There were tears, raw emotion, strength and hope throughout the morning,” she said.

“Each story was a powerful reminder of why events like this matter and highlighted the importance of continuing to raise funds for Cancer Council to help advance research, treatment and support services for those affected by cancer.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, TDHS raised approximately $2000 towards Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.

“Every dollar truly makes a difference.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, donated, shared their stories and supported this meaningful cause.”

Fellow host Lesley Togni said she was happy with the attendance and contributors of the event.

“There were probably not as many as last year, but there was something else on in Timboon too,” she said.

“Thanks to all the people who donated prizes for the raffles.

“Thanks to Schulz Organic Dairy for donating milk.”

Mrs Togni said she was inspired to raise money for the Cancer Council in a variety of ways and looked forward to hosting another Biggest Morning Tea next year.

“I used to do the Relay for Life and in 10 years we raised $100,000,” she said.

“I’m actually going to do Relay for Life again in Warrnambool next year, get the team going again.

“When you come away from doing something good, you feel like a million dollars – you feel great.

“It’s from giving and doing something voluntary that makes you feel good.”

It is not too late to donate to the cause, with the donation link still active and available at https://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/s/102296/157304.