Trudi Hay’s Virtual High Tea

Fundraising looks a little different to how it used to, with new and innovative ways being sought to connect with networks and donors.

For the second year in a row, Northern Health Foundation Board Member and Patron, Trudi Hay, hosted her annual Cancer High Tea via a virtual platform. The event, which was held live between Trudi’s living room and Northern Health Offices, successfully raised over $15,000 for our Cancer Services.

Guest speakers included Melissa Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager of Day Oncology at Northern Health, and Madelaine Flynn, Head of Infection Control at Northern Health. Guests were also offered an insight into the operation of major sponsor, Core Projects, which was voted among Australia’s best places to work.

Trudi is passionate about supporting patients who are undergoing cancer treatment and has been raising funds for our Cancer Services for many years. It is a cause very dear to her heart. With the total raised over the past 11 years close to $95,000, her events have resulted in the funding of many important items for cancer patients, including an ECG Machine and a contribution towards a Scalp Cooling Machine.

In the past, Trudi has welcomed guests into her home or to other locations within her local community. The move to a virtual platform involved setting up all technical aspects prior to the event; a fantastic effort from the Foundation and Communications teams.

“I was overwhelmed and touched with the incredible reaction and generosity to my virtual events over the last two years, especially during difficult times. If anything, we wanted to circulate the message that cancer treatments have continued throughout lockdown and to thank the amazing work that our frontline staff are doing to protect our community,” says Trudi.

Melissa Gwynne was also moved by the incredible generosity of this year’s event. “We are very grateful for the support of patrons like Trudi Hay. This support has enabled us to make the cancer journey a little more comfortable for our patients. With such a wonderful result this year, we will be purchasing a new bladder scanner for the department,” says Melissa.

“On behalf of Northern Health Foundation, we thank Trudi and her guests for their dedication to Northern Health Cancer Services. We are very grateful for our patrons and the ongoing support they provide to our community,” says Pina Di Donato, Director Foundation.

 Featured image shows Melissa Gwynne, speaking at the Virtual High Tea.