‘Knocking on hearts’ for Myrna
Wimmera Filipino Australian Club leaders have called on the wider community to enjoy an afternoon at Horsham’s Weir Park while raising money for a couple in need.
President Marivic Vix said club members would host a barbecue and activities from noon to 3pm to support Stawell couple Noel Clarke and Myrna Liberato.
“Myrna is from the Philippines and has been in a relationship with Noel for two years,” Mrs Vix said.
“She arrived in Australia in July and they are planning to get married, but she started getting really sick.
“She has been diagnosed with bone cancer and her treatment and medication is expensive.
“Noel is 72 and can’t afford to pay for it all, so they reached out to us for help.
“We have done other fundraisers to help out people in the Filipino community – we try to help when we can.”
Club members will host a barbecue, with profits going towards Ms Liberato’s treatment.
“People are welcome to make other donations on the day as well,” Mrs Vix said.
“We will also run some games and activities throughout the afternoon. It’s for a serious cause but we want people to be able to enjoy the day.
“The event is not just for the Filipino community, but for the wider Wimmera community.”
Mr Clarke has also launched an online gofundme page for Ms Liberato.
He explained that he bought his partner to Australia so they could get married and ‘be together as a family’.
“Unfortunately she became very sick upon arrival in Australia in July and has been diagnosed with bone cancer,” he said.
“At times she is in a lot of pain and without medication she will extremely suffer.
“I love her so much and want her to get well so we can spend time together for the remaining years of my life.
“I am not rich, so I don’t have enough money to pay for her treatment.
“So I am knocking on your hearts for any amount you could extend for Myrna to assist her in this unexpected and desperate situation.”
People can visit www.gofund me.com/7exr5g-help-for-med ical-expenses or attend Saturday’s event in Horsham to make a donation.