Embracing a worthy cause

and eftpos cards, all willing to support the Pink Ribbon cause.

‘‘Our staff provided the breakfast and contributed gifts to the auction and raffles,’’ Pamela says. ‘‘Colleagues and local businesses donated the items that comprised the gift baskets and auctions and people contributed generously from their own pockets.’’

When the amount was collated, the RE/MAX team had raised four times the amount collected last year.

‘‘We’ve had a huge response. I’m delighted with the outcome. It’s our way of contributing to society and the Pink Ribbon cause,’’ Pamela says.

Among the many highlights was a hair-raising event. Four heads of hair were shaved from people who wanted to identify with those going through chemotherapy. They include Sylvia Higgan, RE/MAX Go For Sold Property Manager, her daughter Lianna Kennedy, Sarah Hornblow, whose family had been affected by breast cancer, and musician Sonny Tatana, who was so overwhelmed he contributed his locks to the cause.

While the annual Pink Ribbon breakfast is close to all of their hearts, they have been motivated by two staff members who are survivors of breast cancer.

Pamela explains that sales consultant Donna Cliff’s life ‘‘has been hugely affected by breast cancer on a daily basis.’’ The cancer treatment has affected Donna’s immune system and costs $1500 a month in unsubsidised medication for her to live a normal life.

‘‘My heart goes out to Donna and Deb Quin, another RE/MAX sales consultant,’’ Pamela says. ‘‘Deb, who’s had breast cancer and undergone surgery and treatment, spoke impressively at the breakfast.

‘‘Both have gone through trauma and their courage has inspired us to contribute to the breast cancer campaign,’’ Pamela says.

Pamela says the condition doesn’t need to be a fatal disease. It is also important to be aware that men can also get breast cancer. ‘‘Early detection is so important. I appeal to all women to be checked regularly and not ignore any abnormalities they may have.’’

That’s good advice