Morning tea raises thousands to help sick kids battling cancer

The spirit of giving is alive in Moreton Bay, with the community coming together to raise thousands of dollars to help researchers find a cure for childhood cancer.

More than 150 people attended a morning tea fundraiser hosted by members of U3A Redcliffe Inc, which was held on Saturday, May 14.

The group raised a total of $6,693, which was donated to the Children’s Cancer Institute - Australia’s only independent medical research wholly dedicated to curing childhood cancer.

U3A Redcliffe Inc member and fundraiser organiser Margie Woodhead said she is thrilled with how successful the fundraiser was.

“We were over the moon with how much money we raised. We didn’t expect to reach that amount,” Margie said.

“The generosity of the Redcliffe community is amazing.

“I had 35 people who helped me out, and we received $9000 worth of prizes for the cent auction and the raffle.”

The morning also featured a fashion show, as well as presentations from two guest speakers - Claire Blake from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research and Julie Cross, a professional speaker.

“Everybody really enjoyed listening to the guest speakers. They were wonderful,” Margie said.

After receiving the donation, Children’s Cancer Institute Executive Director Professor Michelle Haber AM has thanked the community for their generous contribution.

“The Institute is so appreciative of generous communities of people, like those from Moreton Bay, who come together to raise vital funds for our research,” Michelle said.

“You are helping us to make significant discoveries leading to new treatments for children with cancer.

“We absolutely believe that with the support of the community we will find a cure for every child in the foreseeable future.”

See more photos from the event in the gallery below:

Join the U3A

U3A (which stands for University of Third Age) is a worldwide self-help organisation promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing.

Members of the Redcliffe branch enjoy a wide variety of courses and events, which are held throughout the year.

Members also enjoy several social activities held throughout the year, including trivia events, bus trips, fundraisers and lunches.

For more information about U3A Redcliffe Inc, phone 3284 2687 or visit their website.

Alternatively, you can also phone Margie on 0419 706 865.

Pictured above: Children’s Cancer Institute Executive Director Professor Michelle Haber AM

How you can help end childhood cancer 

The Children’s Cancer Institute was established in the 1970s by the parents of children with cancer.

Through donations like this, the Institute can conduct life-saving research that will have a significant impact on the lives of children with cancer in the past, present and future.

According to their website, about 300,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year worldwide in children and adolescents.

The website also states cancer kills three children every week in Australia.

In addition, 70 per cent of children who survive cancer will also suffer long-term side effects from their treatment.

If you would like to support the Children’s Cancer Institute, you can donate via the website, host a fundraising event, or partner with the Institute to help cure childhood cancer.