A Fruitful Dry July

They came together. Twenty-three individuals – staff members, our partners, a cancer patient and her daughter. Each with a different personal reason. All sharing a common goal. To make a difference to patients with cancer. To them, their sacrifice didn’t compare to that of the people who would ultimately benefit from their efforts.

While they went ‘Dry’ for a good cause, they reaped many other rewards.

Firstly, they tripled last year’s effort, raising a grand total of $31,199. Secondly, they finished seventh (out of 100) on the overall leader board. And most importantly, they raised enough money to purchase another car for the Day Oncology Unit at Northern Health. This means more cancer and haematology patients can be administered their chemotherapy and other supportive treatments within the safety and comfort of their own homes. A service that is extremely important right now.

Melissa Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager, Day Oncology, is thrilled at the success of the Dry July fundraising campaign and the opportunity to purchase a new car for the NOAH@Home Program, which launched last year. “Another vehicle will enable us to expand
our geographical parameters to include areas such as Kilmore, Wandong, and Broadford,” says Melissa.

No-one is prouder than team leader, and our very own Fundraising and Relationships Manager, Josie Verga, who cheered along her teammates every step of the way, keeping them focused on the goal. “Every team member is a winner. Giving up alcohol during July, and especially during lockdown, is an admirable achievement,” says Josie.

She also acknowledges the amazing support of Aware Super, Readings Cinema, Melbourne Markets, and Quest Apartments, who provided incentives and prizes for the team.

There’s nothing like some healthy competition and an inspiring vision to bring people together. Because ‘together’ is how great work gets done.

As expressed by team member and Divisional Director, Nursing and Surgical Services, Linda Romano, “I am so happy the group demonstrated our health service values of ‘together’ with this one.”

Congratulations to the Dry July team. Thank you for showing us what can be achieved by working together. We are excited to see what next year will bring… Cheers!