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Twin sisters give up their birthday gifts to tackle cancer
When most kids are eagerly anticipating toys and treats for their 8th birthdays, twin sisters Jasmine and Julie decided to direct their charitable spirit towards raising funds for cancer research and support.
“It’s more than just about presents,” Jasmine shares. “We have to support people who have cancer, and we wanted to do something that could help others.”
Each year, the twins research and choose a different charity, requesting friends and family make charitable contributions instead of the usual gifts.
“Our birthdays feel more special when we can help people,” says Julia.
This year, the twins celebrated their birthday at their Taekwondo class. They created a website and sent out birthday cards with a QR code asking guests to donate in lieu of gifts. Surrounded by family, friends, and heartfelt support for Cancer Council Victoria, they proved that the spirit of giving can shine brighter than the most lavish of gifts.
Shaving to save lives
Over the years, secondary school student Ilija has seen many people go through cancer – breast, bowel, throat, liver and more.
"Last year my great uncle was diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer. I asked lots of questions as well as researched many websites, including Cancer Council. One day after a long chat with my parents, I decided that I would shave my hair and beard for Cancer Council,” he says.
“I spoke to my teacher and school leader and asked if I could involve my school community to raise more awareness. I went from class to class to talk about why I was raising the money and that it will go to help people with cancer as well as their families.”
“I had an awesome day on the day of my shave with teachers, students, and family cheering me on" – Ilija
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea birthday celebrations
In August we celebrated Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea’s 30th birthday with this year’s top fundraisers.
We were delighted to hear from Professor Erica Sloan who shared the inspiration behind and progress on her work investigating if beta blockers, a drug used to treat heart failure, hypertension and anxiety, can also improve the effects of radiotherapy for breast cancer patients.
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea ambassador Kym also shared with guests her cancer journey since she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2021. Kym is an avid fundraiser and hosted her own morning tea raising over $14,000 just this year – incredible!
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