Local breast cancer event volunteers have turned pink merchandising at the annual Mother's Day Classic into an art form that, year after year, supports cancer patients at the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI).
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Several members of local breast cancer support group the Pink Girls have combined their efforts with organisers of the Mother's Day Classic for the volunteer group's latest donation, four tablet computers with wireless headsets and a docking station, worth $1500, which was presented to the cancer unit.
Mother's Day Classic organiser Kylie Bulmer said this year's donation was highly practical in that it would provide cancer patients with a much-needed distraction while undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
"After talking to the cancer team, we learned not every patient has a tablet or mobile phone they can access during treatment," Ms Bulmer said.
"The donated tablets mean patients can communicate with family and friends on Facebook, read articles or watch movies while they receive treatment, which helps to pass the time.
"We looked at a range of options and with the assistance of our local Big W team, who really helped us out, we sourced some great tablets and accessories for patients to use."
The Mother's Day Classic is a 5km fun run and walk from Westport Park held each May which raises funds for breast cancer research. The volunteer group also hosts an additional fundraising event each year.
Their upcoming Pink High Tea at The Westport Club on 28 September will also support breast cancer research and the MNCCI. Tickets cost $59 and details are available on the Mother's Day Classic Facebook page.
Pink Girls Tracy Stone and Magalie Lameloise, who sell pink merchandise at the fun run and high tea in support of local MNCCI cancer patients, are members of a support group for about 40 young women living with, and beyond, breast cancer.
Acting Nurse Unit Manager Katie Gooch said the tablets would make a difference to patients who did not own a mobile device.
"Some patients receive treatment for up to four hours in one session, which is a long time to be in a chair, especially if you don't have a visitor to talk to or a mobile device to interact with.
"The volunteer group's donation is, once again, very practical and very much appreciated."