Drinkers help a vital cause
ESPRESSO martini drinkers in Townsville have helped make the dream of a passionate campaigner for breast cancer awareness, Jody Lingard, come true.
The Heritage Exchange in Flinders St East donated $ 2 for every espresso martini sold to ensure Ms Lingard took part in the Dragon Boat Festival in Florence Italy.
“I am humbled beyond words that so much was raised by the Heritage Exchange’s espresso martini drinkers, nearly $ 4000, to help me realise a dream to attend the festival in Italy,” the moth- er- of- three said. “Being a member of the Dragons Abreast Townsville group has been an incredible experience for me.”
Ms Lingard said Dragons Abreast helped spread the message of hope and inspiration to those who were faced with a breast cancer diagnosis.
The group’s mission was to encourage wellness, fitness, fun and camaraderie for breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating, and promote breast cancer awareness throughout the community.
And there is not a more active advocate for breast cancer awareness than Ms Lingard, a teacher at Heatley Primary School.
“I’ve had several operations, including a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation as part of my cancer treatment,” she said.
“Since my diagnosis in 2011, when I was 37, I have presented my personal story at many functions in Townsville.
“Spreading the message about breast cancer awareness and breast cancer support is vital and one that I’m so happy to be able to do.”
Heritage Exchange owner Emmanuel Bogiatzis said Jody was one of the city’s many unsung heroes.
“Raising the money through the espresso martini sales was a small way to help give Jody a little recognition for the great work she does in the community,” he said.
“Jody Lingard has been an active advocate for breast cancer awareness in Townsville and has always been courageous in sharing her own personal journey to help others with their journeys.”