Pin with a Halloween twist: Lisa Gott, Rebecca Buckley, Alex Montgomery, Jane Bryant, Deb Turnbull.
Kempsey District Hospital turns rosy for Breast Cancer month
Nov 14, 2024Breast Cancer Awareness Month, for staff and patients at Kempsey District Hospital, means feeling like you’ve donned rose-tinted lenses as each ward turned various shades of pink to encourage conversation around breast cancer detection and care.
Every Wednesday staff wore pink to spread the rosy vibe to every room.
At the end of the month, fun prizes were awarded to the wards the judges believed had the most creative crimson displays and a bake-off on 25 October showcased those with gastronomical talents. Local businesses donated funding, goods and vouchers for the winners.
Throughout October, raffles and events supported The McGrath Foundation’s mission to fund specialised breast cancer nurses throughout Australia. This year a whopping $2,386.65 was raised.
A month of awareness and action
The month-long initiative ignited conversations about breast cancer awareness, resonating with hospital staff, patients, and visitors alike. The heart of these efforts was driven by the enthusiastic support of Michelle Heffernan, Haley Perkins, and a committed team of hospital volunteers. Together, they coordinated raffle sales, organized a spirited “Pink Bake Off,” and brought people together to support an important cause.
Quilt raffle, bake-off, and more
The South West Rocks Friendly Patchers contributed a beautifully handcrafted quilt for the raffle, with members selling tickets well before Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Another highlight was a stunning Aboriginal artwork donated by Cynthia Younie, adding to the appeal of the raffle and helping to raise $1,228.65. Michelle Heffernan’s scrub-top raffle contributed an additional $354.20, and the “Pink Bake Off” brought in $48.10.
Raffle winners:
- Quilt: Peggy Eaton
- Aboriginal Artwork: Helen Fairbairn
- Scrub Top: Caitlin Henderson (Theatres)
The “Pink Bake Off” crowned Michelle Heffernan as the winner, with her raspberry cheesecakes securing a baking hamper prize.
Team spirit shines through ward decorations and fundraising competitions
Coastline Credit Union staff member Lauren took on the challenging role of judging the Best Pink Ward Display. The Community Mental Health team won this year’s top award with an immersive display depicting the journey of a breast cancer patient on the Macleay – complete with live chickens! They celebrated their win with a $150 coffee voucher donated by Hello Fresh.
The Education Unit took the prize for raising the most funds through initiatives like “Pink Shirt Wednesday,” with Emergency placing second. The Education Unit received a $100 grazing platter from Oh So Tasty Sweets and Grazing.
Community support makes all the difference
With prizes donated by Coastline Credit Union and tremendous support from the South West Rocks Friendly Patchers, this year’s efforts made a meaningful contribution to breast cancer awareness and support services. “It was truly a team effort, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everyone who pitched in,” said a Kempsey Hospital representative. “Together, we raised over $2,300 for the McGrath Foundation, making a tangible difference in the lives of people facing breast cancer.”
For more on the impact of these donations, visit the McGrath Foundation’s “Paint Your Ward Pink” campaign online. Thank you, Kempsey Hospital, for your incredible dedication and generosity!
