The 75-strong crowd that gathered at Warracknabeal Town Hall on Friday evening pulled off the remarkable feat of looking a combination of beautiful, dashing, and mysterious in their masks, gowns, suits and costumes as they dug deep to support the Rural Northwest Health Cancer Support Group at the Romeo and Juliet Masquerade Ball.
Welcomed to the black and red-themed event by the musical stylings of Jeff Woodward echoing across the hall, attendees were quickly captivated by the guest speakers who shared their stories with honesty and vulnerability.
RNH Project Support Officer Bernie O’Connor discussed the Grampians Integrated Cancer Service (GICS), whose grant funding made the event a possibility, and the work RNH has been doing to screen local communities.
Wimmera Prostate Cancer Survivor Group’s Brian Nagorcka and Jack Janetzski spoke about prostate cancer and their lived experiences in an exceptionally candid, no holds barred manner, before Jack moved the crowd by performing a song that meant a lot to him throughout his cancer journey.
Rounding out the speaker line up, RNH Sexual Health Nurse Lou Bellizzi spoke about cervical cancer and the importance of screening, with all four speakers echoing the sentiment that early screening is vital and that, if you’re feeling like something isn’t quite right, don’t put it off – see your GP.
Supporting the Cancer Support Group, which meets monthly at RNH’s Warracknabeal Campus and provides a place for cancer clients, their spouses and/or carers, to share their experiences in a confidential, supportive environment, the evening raised a spectacular $458.50.
Group host RNH Cancer Resource Nurse Karen Miller said the money will go toward an experience that “lifts the members’ spirits and brings a smile to their faces”.
The evening also featured several best dressed prizes, with Jessica Nippers’ elegant red ensemble selected as the Best Dressed Female.
Donning a vibrant blue New Orleans-style mask, Scott Neill was named Best Dressed Male, while Angie Cox won the Best Costume award for her pilgrim-style costume.
And, last but not least, looking superb in their formal outfits, Mark Marshall and his wife Michelle claimed the Cutest Couple prize.
RNH would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended the evening and donated so generously – events like this can’t take place without community support.
Thank you also to GICS, all guest speakers, Jeff Woodward, Cheeky Fox Café, Breuer’s Hire, the Warracknabeal Town Hall Committee, and all who assisted both in the lead up to, on the night, and after the masquerade ball.
If anyone would like to know more about the Cancer Support Group please contact Karen Miller on 5396 1381.