The Organisation of Hellene and Hellene Cypriots of Australia (OEEGA NSW) and the wider Greek Australian community showed their support for children with cancer and their families with a radio marathon held on Wednesday, November 10th.
Broadcast by the 2MM radio station, the radiothon was a success with over $37,000 raised for the Children’s Cancer Institute (CCI).
“Our president, Irene Anestis, worked tirelessly for two months leading to the event and although she could not go and meet people due to the restrictions, she managed to collect $23,000 from pledges given via the phone,” the organisation’s Secretary, Sylvia Tserdanis, told The Greek Herald.
The women’s organisation has been supporting the Children’s Cancer Institute (CCI) for the last 14 years and have so far donated over $414,000 which has helped to purchase essential equipment for specialised scientific research.
This year’s radio marathon, was supported by prominent political and religious personalities.
This included: the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Christos Karras, the High Commissioner of Cyprus in Australia, Martha Mavrommatis, Greek Australian Labor politicians, Sophie Cotsis and Steve Kamper, Australian Ambassador to the US, Arthur Sinodinos and Archbishop Makarios.
During the fundraiser, messages were heard from scientists of the Institutes as well as a special interview with Greek Australian Professor Maria Kavallaris.
“We deeply appreciate everyone’s support especially during a year like no other,” Ms Tserdanis said and together with President, Ms Irene Anestis thanked for their efforts all OEEGA NSW members, The Athenian Association of NSW President Cathy Vallis as well as the radio presenters – among them our own George Tserdanis- for hosting the radio marathon.
“We want all children who suffer from cancer, regardless of background, to have a chance in life,” Ms Tserdanis said.
Asked about the organisation’s future plans to support the Children’s Cancer Institute (CCI), OEEGA NSW President says that ‘we will continue’.
“I will be fighting for this purpose until I can no more,” Mrs Anestis said.
Those interested in donating, can still do so until the end of November by depositing their donations at Delphi Bank branches with the following information: OEEGA NSW (CCI), BSB: 941202, Account No: 203990010.
For donations or more information call: 0422 596 980, (02) 8509 5274 or 0419 257 099.
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