A hugely successful Pink Ribbon Breakfast was held at the Penguin Cafe this month, organised by Ray White Golden Bay business owner Billy Kerrisk.
Penguin Cafe host Darryn Eves and Billy both have a personal connection to the cause, which drives them to raise awareness in the community and raise money for breast cancer research.
Fifteen years ago, Darryn’s mother won her battle against breast cancer, New Zealand’s most common cancer, affecting one in nine woman every year. Billy‘s close friend lost her life to the illness at a young age, which inspired Billy to start fundraising in 2009.
The event was a huge success raising over $3,600 with over 100 people turning up to support the cause, taking part in a raffle and highly entertaining auction hosted by Billy.
Raising awareness for breast cancer was also a strong focus for the morning. Women were encouraged to feel and pass around a prosthetic breast designed with lumps imitating small cancerous tumours, and pamphlets and posters on breast cancer were discussed over coffee.
“Get yourself checked out” says Billy, “early detection of breast cancer can save lives. It is really important every woman knows this”
“I’m so pleased with the turnout” says Darryn, who agrees with Billy that they will be doing it again next year. Both hope it will continue to grow as a successful and entertaining morning for a worthy cause.
The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation was launched in 1994 with the first annual Pink Ribbon Campaign. Since its creation outcomes for those diagnosed with breast cancer have dramatically improved, with first year survival currently sitting at 86%, up by 24% from 1994. Increased education and awareness are a major factor in this improvement, with screening rates for women nearing 70% between ages 45-69.
Pink Ribbon Breakfasts are being held all over the country throughout May. To find out more go to pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz.