On Thursday, May 30, key sponsors and committee members of Dine & Dance for a Cure gathered at the Canada Bay Club for a special evening.
Donato Bastone, founder of this event, recently spoke about the fundraiser coming about after the passing of his father, Mario, from prostate cancer in 2012.
Over the course of the four previous events, roughly $150,000 has been raised to support ongoing research into this terrible disease and to increase the number of nurses helping patients during their battle.
On Saturday, May 18, the fifth event was held at the Canada Bay Club with 320 guests in attendance. To say the evening was a success would be an understatement.
The Honourable Jim Lloyd of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia received a cheque for $76,000 that was raised during the evening.
During his speech, he thanked Bastone, the committee members, sponsors and supporters for what he said was the largest single donation from an event of this type in a single night.
He explained how the money will be used for continued research and how new discoveries are helping to fight this type of cancer if detected in the early stages.
He also acknowledged the work of nurses who, thanks to donations such as this, make an enormous difference for patients beginning their recovery journey.
He stressed the importance for men over 50 to have prostate checkups and said they should not be afraid to discuss any concerns with their doctor.
Donato also presented major sponsors Pat Cole’s Autobody, Janine Marra and president of the Canada Bay Club, Frank Faila, with a plaque of thanks.
He then presented a plaque to committee members Janine Marra, Matthew Massasso and Fausto Biviano, recognising their commitment and effort in supporting Dine & Dance for a Cure.
It was well-deserved recognition for members of the local community who have done more than their part to contribute to the eventual discovery of a cure.
The evening not only celebrated the success of the fundraiser, but also highlighted the importance of continued research and community support in the fight against prostate cancer.
