Kia ora  

Welcome to our August edition of the Link. With Daffodil Day quickly approaching us on Friday, 25th August, we would like to share with you Steve's cancer story and how the Cancer Society supported Steve and his family's cancer journey. 

Finding Hope on Daffodil Day: Steve Moss's Journey 

"My name is Steve Moss. Born in February 1947, I am the middle of 9 children. Our family has lived in Luggate for 12 and a half years. 

In December 2021, I faced troubling urinary issues, leading me to seek medical attention. After tests and examinations, I received a diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer. The journey ahead was challenging, but with the support of my doctor and the Cancer Society, I felt fully supported. 

In August 2022, I underwent 20 days of crucial Radiotherapy in Dunedin as part of my treatment. I stayed at Daffodil House, a wonderful haven run by the Cancer Society for patients from outside the area.

The warmth and support offered at Daffodil House were invaluable during my treatment. 

Throughout my journey, the Cancer Society has been a pillar of support. In April, I began a regimen of hormone injections, and my PSA levels improved significantly. The care and assistance provided by the Cancer Society staff were remarkable. 

Daffodil Day is a special occasion to raise funds for the Cancer Society and holds immense importance for clients like me.

The funds raised on Daffodil Day go towards research, support services, and community programs that make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families. 

Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the care I received and the hope Daffodil Day brings to individuals impacted by cancer."

Photo taken at Driving Creek Railway in Coromandel of Steve, his sister Virginia, and his wife Jennifer

Your donation this Daffodil Day can make a tangible difference in the lives of those going through challenging times. Your generosity can bring light into the lives of those facing darkness, and your support will be deeply appreciated. Thank you for your kindness and compassion. 

Daffodil Day symbolises hope for Steve and all New Zealanders impacted by cancer. Give today so no one should face cancer alone.  

Donations can be made at daffodilday.org.nz 

Comedian Dai Henwood has undergone almost 20 rounds of chemotherapy while hiding his stage four bowel cancer diagnosis from the public for almost two years. 

Then, in January this year, he made the decision to speak publicly about his illness on prime-time television.

Dai promises a unique, live-to-air comedy show to benefit the Cancer Society this Daffodil Day. 

Watch his interview on The Project NZ where he discusses what Daffodil Day means to him and announces ANZ Presents The Comedy Treatment

Dai says, "...It's actually a privilege for me to be able to give back."

Tune in at 8.30pm on Thursday, 24 August and watch the show live on Three or ThreeNow.

Don't let your workplace or school miss out on fresh flowers!

Your contribution will help us provide vital research, resources, and care to those facing the challenges of cancer in Otago and Southland. 

Orders close Friday, 4th August and will be delivered the week of 21st August, in time for Daffodil Day on Friday, 25th August.

Do you love organising parties, raffles, morning teas, quiz nights, or anything else that gets your people together for a good time - to benefit a local charity?

You can support Daffodil Day by hosting a fundraiser of your own. Support your community by getting involved in one of New Zealand's most iconic fundraising appeals.

Sign up as an individual, community group, workplace, or school / early learning centre today, so no one faces cancer alone.

We have a whole suite of free fundraising tools for you. Check it out today at daffodilday.org.nz

As August rolls in, we are looking forward to welcoming our beautiful daffodils back.

We would like to thank all our wonderful volunteers, especially the Area Coordinators who put so much thought and preparation into making this such a meaningful event in each and every community across Otago and Southland.  We know how much hard work you do each year! Thank you!!

It's never too late to get involved, so contact us on volunteer@cansoc.org.nz if you have some time to help. We can put you in touch with your local Area Coordinator.

We would especially love to hear from you if you are in Invercargill, Oamaru, Mosgiel or Cromwell.

You won't want to miss this prestigious annual event, which promises to be an unforgettable night.

More than an evening of fabulous socialising with the 'who's who' of our big little city, the much-anticipated spring ball offers a captivating experience filled with lively entertainment, glamourous fine dining, and manifold opportunities to contribute to your local Cancer Society.

Tickets are $2,800 for a table of 10 (incl GST). Email info@cansoc.org.nz to reserve your seats today.

presented by Naylor Love and Hugo Charitable Trust

Your all-inclusive ticket for $210 per person includes a delightful evening filled with canapés upon arrival, a gorgeous three-course meal along with beverages, exciting live and silent auctions, and an outstanding live band to dance the night away 🎸

Reserve your table for 10 for $2,100 or buy individual tickets before they sell out!

You are cordially invited to attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM is not only a moment to discuss official business matters but also a chance to celebrate the collective impact we've made throughout the year. Your presence at the meeting will help us reflect on the positive changes we've achieved together and inspire us to continue our vital work in the community.

Meeting Details:

•  Date: Wednesday, 23 August 2023

•  Time: 4:30pm

•  Location: Cancer Society Dunedin Office, 283 Great King Street 

•  Video Link: will be screened at the Invercargill Office, 149 Spey Street https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86917372248

To ensure we have refreshments for everyone, kindly let us know your attendance plans by 16 August. You can do so by reaching out to us at 03 477 7447. 

Business:

•  To receive the annual report 

•  To elect Members to the Board

•  To appoint an Auditor 

Note:

Nomination forms are available from Bob on 03 4796785 or bob.king@cansoc.org.nz

Once again, thank you for being an essential part of our journey. We look forward to joining together at the Annual General Meeting as we forge ahead in making a difference in the lives of individuals impacted by cancer and their whānau.

OBITUARY: Johanna McKenzie-McLean, b. Invercargill, April 30, 1978, d. Cromwell, July 25, 2023.

Throughout her cancer treatment, Jo shared her most vulnerable, happy, and challenging times through her incredible storytelling as a journalist.

Jo wanted to use her media platform to advocate for better cancer care for all people in Aotearoa - asking for more early detection, fair access to life extending medication, and the removal of GST on non-funded drugs.

Jo's story matters, and we need to keep her voice alive so that others can benefit from her incredible bravery.

Because of Jo's advocacy, countless individuals and families affected by cancer will find hope for a future with less cancer and better cancer outcomes in New Zealand.

Sunday, 20th August is the Vintage Car Club's National Day, and across New Zealand hundreds of vehicles will be on the road or on display to raise money for your local Cancer Society.

To find out more about your local
Daffodil Rally, visit vcc.org.nz

We know that getting a cancer diagnosis can be tough for you and your loved ones. It's a challenging road that requires not just medical attention, but also emotional support. 

That's why we invite you to join your local support group.

It's a friendly and confidential space where you can share your thoughts and feelings with others who understand what you're going through.

We're here to support you every step of the way, from diagnosis to recovery. From talking about tough treatment days to celebrating small wins, we're here to listen and offer comfort. 

So come along for a casual and confidential chat.

We are thrilled to introduce our dedicated Cancer Society Community Managers, Jo Arthur in Otago, Tara Strahan in Central Otago, and Pikihuia Solomon who starts in Southland this week.

Our Community Managers play a crucial role in supporting our mission and connecting with the community. Each Community Manager brings their unique expertise and passion to enhance the lives of individuals impacted by cancer and their families.

Our Community Managers work to strengthen our partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and volunteers, enabling us to make a greater impact on the lives of those facing the challenges of cancer.

They are the face of the Cancer Society in their respective regions, fostering connections and understanding the unique needs of our communities.

We are incredibly proud of our Community Managers' dedication and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.

Their presence strengthens the Cancer Society's outreach and ensures that no one faces cancer alone.

We are delighted to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the generous grant funding we have received from Southland District Council,  Creative Communities Scheme, W Duncan Bickley Trust Fund, Kiwi Gaming, Invercargill Licensing Trust, Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing, Happy With That Trust, Community Trust of Maniototo and Bendigo Valley Sports & Charity Foundation, Community and Volunteering Capability fund, Community Trust South, Invercargill Licensing Trust Foundation and Invercargill Licensing Trust.  

Through your valuable contribution, we can enhance and expand our services, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

A massive thanks to Jason Rutter from PGG Wrightson Real Estate in Balclutha who answered the call for help to move our Supportive Care office in Balclutha.

Jason, his wife Tania, Tania's colleague Steve, and a helpful chap who was passing by 'Jamie' joined forces to make our transition from Clyde St to 16 James Street an easy and enjoyable exercise! Job done… Also a big thanks to Joyce and Mike.

We are so well supported by people in our communities. It takes a village 🙌 Do you need support with a cancer diagnosis? Get in touch with Diana today:

Phone number

Call us on (03) 418 3916

Email address

diana.power@cansoc.org.nz

Physical address

16 James Street, Balclutha 9230

Living with cancer can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, for people with cancer and whānau.

If you would like to talk with someone about what support is available in your community, call our Cancer Information Helpline 0800 CANCER (226237) to speak with one of our health professionals.