Aloha it’s a luau to help cure cancer

Over 50 Feros Care Wommin Bay residents and their families, volunteers and staff gathered for a celebration of life last Thursday. The Hawaiian themed Biggest Afternoon tea and shave was for friends “past, present and future” who may be impacted by cancer.

Colour and flowers were the order of the afternoon. Hibiscus patterned shirts, floral sarongs, leis and frangipanis were worn by everyone and the room was decorated with large palms tress made and decorated by the residents.

One resident, Ron Jenkins, talked about the importance of early detection and answering doctor’s questions truthfully. He said when he was in his late 70s, a simple conversation between himself and his doctor lead to an early bowel cancer diagnosis. “The quick detection and operation meant I didn’t need chemotherapy or any ongoing procedures. I’ve now been cleared for five years and the doctor said I’m ‘just fine’,” he smiled.

Staff and volunteers entertained residents with a hula-hoop competition and a men versus women hula dancing

Resident of nine years, Shirley said that “as usual the staff and volunteers went all out to ensure everyone had a great time.

“The afternoon meant I could wear my dear departed husband’s shirt that he bought in Vanuatu many, many years ago. It reminded me of him very fondly.

“And the food was incredible. Our lovely chef Tanya made so many lovely treats for us!”

Volunteer Allan Dean ‘donated’ his beard to the fundraising. “My kids are in their late 30s and they have never seen me without facial hair – in fact I’ve had a beard for 41 years now”.

When asked how he felt after it was shaven off he said “Buzzy. I’m not ready to look in the mirror yet”. Cate Williams planned to get a ‘number four’ hair cut but changed her mind half way through and received a number 2 instead.

Running her hands through her hair later she said “It feels so clean and smooth, but I wonder what my partner will say?”

More than $500 was raised by for the Cancer Council and Shave for a Cure. “It was like a telethon” laughed Allan. “Everyone was waving money in the air to donate!”

About Feros Care
Feros Care is a multi-award winning not-for-profit organisation that’s been offering quality care and support services for older Australians since 1990. We strive to be a strong ambassador and partner in the lives of seniors. Our focus is on helping seniors to remain living independently, socially connected, healthy and fulfilling lives for as long as possible.

Feros Care offers industry leading services in At Home Care, Residential Care, Telehealthcare, Case Management, and Health & Wellness.
Feros Care Media and Marketing Manager Lisa Murray