Tuesday, 15 October 2024

 Eden FOSTER (Mulgrave) (13:01): I rise today to update the chamber on my recent health. In early July I was diagnosed with stage 1 lymphoma. Since then I have received expert care from across the Victorian healthcare system. As I am nearing the end of my treatment, which has progressed well, I would like to give a special acknowledgement to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, where I have received much of my treatment. The staff there have been incredible and always willing to go above and beyond to help not only me but all patients in their care. I am incredibly grateful to live in a state and a time where my diagnosis is not a death sentence. The fact that I had access to the best care and was diagnosed early gave me the best chance possible.

Recently I hosted a fundraiser at Killester College in Springvale alongside many of my parliamentary colleagues, raising $10,000 for Cancer Council Victoria. I would like to thank everyone who donated and supported me during that fundraiser and throughout the course of my treatment, including my wonderful community of Mulgrave. I would especially like to thank my good friend and colleague the member for Dandenong, who has supported me immensely during this challenge and has gone as far as shaving her amazing locks today. I could not have asked for a better friend and ally to support me. Combined, we have raised over $25,000 for Cancer Council Victoria. It is wonderful to be back in the chamber, and I look forward to representing my community of Mulgrave in this place once again.