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Empowerment on the menu at Ladies Who Lunch

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Positive impact: GV Health Foundation committee members Neha Samar and Karli Heggart, GV Health Foundation and Engagement director Claire Ewart-Kennedy, foundation ambassador Vicki Scott, Greater Shepparton City Council partnerships and marketing co-ordinator Liz Connick and committee members Melissa Gilmour and Courtney Butler. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Mark your calendars, lads and ladies, and get ready for a day of empowerment, celebration and health awareness.

The Ladies Who Lunch event, reimagined from the Pink Ribbon Brunch, will return on October 29, following a pause due to COVID-19.

All proceeds from the event will go directly to the GV Health Foundation to support local women undergoing cancer treatment.

This year’s event at Riverlinks Eastbank, Shepparton, has something special for everyone.

From engaging speakers to raffles and gift bags, and much more, the event promises an unforgettable experience.

However, the essence of the event lies in raising funds for oncology services, and if the $50,000 goal is reached, any additional funds will go directly to a new integrated cancer centre.

The annual Greater Shepparton City Council Health and Wellbeing event will coincide with the Ladies Who Lunch event.

In its third year, the Health and Wellbeing event provides an opportunity to connect with health services, wellness businesses, professionals and local people to support physical, mental and spiritual health.

“We aim to increase the many and varied support services on offer here in Greater Shepparton,” council partnerships and marketing co-ordinator Liz Connick said.

“In the last two years many new and innovative professional services in the health and wellbeing sector have opened, and we are spoilt for choice.”

GV Health Foundation and Engagement director Claire Ewart-Kennedy encouraged everyone to “spread the word” and invite their friends and family.

“You can start the day by exploring the Health and Wellbeing event, then head into the Ladies Who Lunch event,” she said.

“Listen to guest speakers and celebrate with the people who matter most to you — all whilst raising funds for the GV Health Foundation.

“I’m hoping that we’re going to have a sea of women there to fundraise for their community.

“The blokes can come. Of course, they’re welcome.”

After being diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in March last year, the inaugural ambassador of GV Health Foundation, Vicki Scott, has first-hand experience of the value of local treatment.

“I had all of my treatments, 24 weeks of chemotherapy, done here through the Peter Copulos Wellness Centre,” she said.

“Having your treatment undertaken locally has such a huge impact on the individual and also those around that person.”

GV Health Foundation committee member and breast and gynaecological cancer support nurse Melissa Gilmour also highlighted the importance of local diagnostic services and treatments, and expressed her support for the upcoming event.

“It’s a great way for women and families to get together and celebrate those who have been through or are going through treatment,” Mrs Gilmour said.

“And to celebrate those loved ones who have passed away whilst giving back to the community.”

For those interested in supporting the event or participating, contact gvhealthfoundation@gvhealth.org.au

Updates on the event, including ticket sales, can be found by following the GV Health Foundation and the Health and Wellbeing event on social media.