Shepparton Pacing for Pink
Kim O’KEEFFE (Shepparton) (09:41): On Sunday 4 May I attended the Shepparton Harness Racing Pacing for Pink fundraiser in support of the McGrath Foundation, with over 200 attending the luncheon and hundreds more outside supporting the events at the track. Funds raised through the event go towards funding breast care nurses, who do such an incredible job supporting their patients, and so far have supported over 155,000 patients. At the event, cancer patients Michelle Honey and her mother Pauline Baldi shared their personal journey and the challenge of being diagnosed with breast cancer and going through breast cancer treatment at the same time. The sharing of their experience at this event was a testament to why these amazing breast care nurses need to be funded and why we must keep supporting cancer research. Michelle and Pauline’s very strong message was to remind people to have their regular health checks, a message that resonated with so many in the room and a message that can save lives. As Michelle mentioned, often in our busy lives things can get in the way of our self-care. I first heard of Michelle’s diagnosis on social media, and she has been so passionate in wanting to share her story in the hope that it will encourage others to have their health checks but also to seek advice when they feel something about their body is not right. Pauline is now cancer-free and Michelle is still fighting her cancer battle. These incredibly strong, brave and determined women left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance that day. The Shepparton Harness Racing Pacing for Pink event raised over $38,000. It was a fantastic day. Well done to everyone involved. Today we have the Cancer Council here at Parliament house for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Thank you for your vital work in research, prevention and support.